Random Thoughts

Car Survivial Kit for a Blizzard (or anytime of year)

First, a disclaimer: except for that day in June 2008 (see Suzi's Blog on Sunday, June 8) Fred and I had not considered having a survival kit in our car. However, since that day and then driving through a Montana blizzard (Suzi did a Blog on that one, too), the value of emergency supplies safely tucked away in ones car were driven home.

Without firsthand experience on what a car survival kit for a blizzard should contain we looked to those who have prepared one. Our daughter was our first source then we went to the web and got additional suggestions from British Columbia's Department of Emergency Preparedness and Response, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and Town Pump a chain of Montana gas stations. Each of these websites has more information, in greater detail, than we've given here.

Perhaps the most important part of a car survival kit is caution. If you must be on the road during a weather advisory or winter storm watch, go in the daylight and be sure someone knows your destination, route, and expected arrival time. Also, never go anywhere with a gas tank less than half full. It is especially important during winter months to regularly check the car battery, ignition system, thermostat, lights, flashers, exhaust, heater, brakes, defroster and tires. In other words, keep your car in good repair.

Stuff a clean large coffee can that has a lid with:
- long burning candles and matches;
- nonperishable food such as, nuts, dried fruit, candy, and beef jerky;
- a cup or mug is useful for gathering snow to melt for drinking; and
- red flag or bandanna to tie to the antenna.
This would be a good place to store a pre-paid cell-phone.
I would tuck a deck of cards, game, book, or some type of entertainment into a car survival kit.

A second coffee can with lid was suggested for sanitary needs.

Under the seat or somewhere close at hand keep:
- your car survival kit;
- extra winter clothing such as mittens, overshoes, caps;
- flashlight with extra batteries;
- a sleeping bag or extra blankets;
- windshield scraper;
- battery or crank powered radio; and,
- first-aid kit with pocket knife.

In your vehicle's trunk have:
- salt, sand, or cat litter;
- a shovel;
- booster cables;
- emergency flares; and
- fluorescent distress flag.

If you get stuck, for whatever reason:
- pull off the road and turn on your hazard lights;
- stay with your car - Do Not try to walk to safety;
- tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see;
- start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour;
- keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up into the car;
- keep window away from the blowing wind slightly open to let in fresh air;
- as you sit in your car, keep moving your arms and legs to circulate blood and help stay warm;
- huddling with other passengers or pets under a blanket will help you stay warm;
- stay awake - you'll be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems;
- wrap your entire body, including your head, fingers and toes, in extra clothing, blankets, newspapers, whatever you have;
- melt snow before drinking it - eating unmelted snow will lower your body temperature; and
- stay inside your car.