Winter Driving Survival Guide: Packing & Preparation

As winter approaches, it’s crucial to prepare your vehicle for the challenging driving conditions before you travel. A bit of foresight can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Here are three things to consider for safer winter driving:

1. Create and Maintain an Emergency Kit

Having an emergency kit in your vehicle is a fundamental step in winter preparedness. You can create and maintain your winter emergency kit by:

• Including Basic Travel Supplies: Ensure your kit includes a first aid kit, jumper cables, and a flashlight with extra batteries.

• Packing Winter-Specific Items: Include items like blankets, extra clothes, hand warmers, bottled water, and non-perishable food to keep you comfortable if you get stranded.

• Using an Emergency Kit Checklist: Periodically inspect your emergency kit with a checklist to identify when you need to replenish missing or expired items, ensuring you’re always ready for unexpected situations. You can download our Winter Vehicle Emergency Checklist here.

2. Tailor Your Kit for Unique Needs

If you're traveling with others, customizing your emergency kit can be incredibly beneficial. You can help tailor your kit to your travel needs by:

• Considering Passengers: Think about what additional items might be necessary for co-workers or family members, such as medications or comfort items.

• Personalizing for Comfort: Include personal items that may ease anxiety or provide comfort during a stressful situation, like a favorite snack or a book.

• Adjusting the Quantity: Adjust the quantity of supplies based on the number of passengers to ensure everyone has what they need.

3. Prepare Before the Storm Hits

Timing your preparation is essential to avoid being caught off guard by severe weather. You can help prepare yourself by:

• Planning Ahead: Take the time to prepare your vehicle and emergency supplies before winter storms arrive.

• Staying Informed: Keep an eye on weather forecasts and adjust your travel plans accordingly to avoid dangerous conditions.

• Practicing Safe Driving: Familiarize yourself with winter driving techniques, such as how to handle skids and the importance of maintaining a safe following distance.

By taking these steps, you not only improve your safety but also equip yourself with the confidence to handle whatever winter throws your way. Remember, preparation is key.

At Prositions, we offer a variety of training courses to help you and your employees stay safe and secure online. For more information about our “How to Survive Winter Driving” series or other safety training videos, call 877-244-8848, email info@prositions.com, or schedule a meeting with us on Calendly.

Stay ahead of the winter storms.

Download our Winter Vehicle Emergency Checklist now.