(WBAP/KLIF) – Winter weather, including snow, ice and sub-freezing temperatures could impact parts of North and Central Texas later this week, according to the National Weather Service.
AAA Texas is reminding drivers to make sure their vehicles are ready to hit the snowy streets, should they need to travel. According to AAA, preventive maintenance is essential for safe driving and greatly decreases the chances of being stranded in the cold. But, if you do break down in the cold you will definitely want to have a winter emergency kit, which approximately 40% of American drivers told AAA they do not carry.
Before the winter blast arrives, it’s essential that drivers make sure they have a fully stocked emergency kit, equipped for winter weather. AAA said the kit should include the following:
- Traction aids (sand, salt, non-clumping cat litter or traction mats)
- Shovel
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Jumper cables or jump pack
- Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, duct tape, plastic zip ties)
- Tarp, raincoat and gloves to help stay clean/dry if you must get out of the vehicle
- Rags, paper towels or pre-moistened wipes
- Warning devices (flares, reflective triangles or LED beacons)
- First-aid kit (check expiration date)
- Drinking water
- Snacks/food for your passengers and any pets
- Ice scraper
- Snow brush
- Winter windshield washer solvent
- Warm gloves, clothes, hats and blankets for all passengers in your car
- Car charger for mobile phone
Additional Winter Driving Safety Tips from AAA Texas:
- Use your seatbelt every time you get in the vehicle.
- Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage. In fact, modern vehicles do not require idle time prior to driving.
- Make sure the exhaust pipe isn’t clogged with snow, ice or mud. A blocked exhaust could cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to leak into the passenger compartment with the engine running.
- Never leave your vehicle unattended with the engine running.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid gas line freeze-up.
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