11/20/2007
Emergency supplies can help motorists during winter travel
BOISE - Motorists can prepare for safer winter travel by keeping a simple emergency kit on hand, advises the Idaho Transportation Department.
Every driver should carry some essential items in the car in case of an emergency:
* Flashlights with extra batteries
* Stocked first aid kit
* Pocketknife
* Blanket or sleeping bag
* Mittens, socks and a wool cap
* Waterproof covering like a tarp or a poncho
* Three-pound coffee can, which can be used to heat water
* A small sack of sand or cat litter for generating traction under stuck wheels; it also adds weight to your vehicle
* A small shovel
* Bottled water (but remember it will probably freeze so allow expansion room in the container)
* Booster cables
* Energy bars or other high-energy food like raisins or nuts
* Brightly colored scarf to attract attention in case of an emergency
* Waterproof matches or a cigarette lighter
* Candles (a blanket over your head, body heat and the heat from a single candle can prevent freezing)
* Basic tool kit to include pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, tape and wire
* Paper towels or toilet tissue, good for their designed purpose as well as a fire starter
* Spare tire
* Rope and wire, tow chain or a strap
* Starter fluid, extra oil, gas line deicer and battery booster cables
* Map of the area where you plan to travel
* Signaling devices such as emergency flares or a mirror
Having these items on hand can help ensure a driver's safety, but vehicles also need attention at the start of the winter season. The American Automobile Association (AAA) advises drivers to prepare their vehicles for the winter season by having a mechanic check the following items:
* Battery
* Antifreeze level
* Wipers and windshield washer fluid
* Ignition system
* Thermostat
* Headlights and hazard lights
* Exhaust system
* Defroster and heater
* Brakes
* Oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 variety)
* Winter tires
Basic automobile parts can help save a stranded motorist. Put these automotive parts to good use:
* A hubcap or sun visor can be substituted for a shovel
* Seat covers can be used as a blanket
* Floor mats can be used to shut out the wind
* Engine oil burned in a hubcap creates a smoke signal visible for miles.
* A car horn can be heard as far as a mile downwind. Three long blasts, ten seconds apart, every 30 minutes, is a standard distress signal.
* A rear-view mirror can be removed to serve as a signaling device
* Burn a tire for a signal or for warmth. Release the air pressure and use gasoline or oil for a means to ignite it.
Before beginning a trip or long drive, motorists can dial 511 or visit 511.idaho.gov on the Web for updates on winter road and weather conditions, emergency closures and access to tourist information.