11/19/2010
Drivers should carry safety equipment in winter
BOISE - Motorists can prepare for safer winter travel by keeping a simple emergency kit on hand. The Idaho Transportation Department advises drivers to carry some helpful 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 (jumper) cables
- Energy bars or other high-energy food like raisins or nuts
- 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
- Window defroster and heater
- Brakes, oil level (if necessary, replace existing oil with a winter grade oil or the SAE 10w/30 viscosity)
- Winter tires
- Brakes
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.