Survive a Roadside Emergency in Winter
A winter roadside emergency can be a scary situation. Many people have cell phones, and they rarely contemplate or worry about what could happen if they were to be stranded in the midst of a dangerous winter storm. Cell phone service can easily go out, or rescue crews may be swamped with so many calls that it could take several hours before you are brought to safety. By following these steps, you can rest assured that you will be safe in the winter no matter what the road throws your way.
Steps
- Dress for the worst. By dressing in layers throughout the winter, you can prepare yourself to withstand all sorts of bitter cold that may occur. It's never smart to leave your house in the winter without a hat, coat and gloves. If you ever are stranded, protecting your extremities is essential to prevent frostbite from occurring.
- Call for help if you can. If you happen to have cell phone service or an on-board service like OnStar, call the Emergency Services. You may also try calling AAA, a tow service or even a friend if you are in dire need.
- Stock an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle. Use plastic milk crates or any durable box that can withstand cold and wet conditions. One of the most important things you need are emergency flares so you can be spotted by rescue crews, police and other vehicles. A First Aid kit is also a good idea for any necessary medical attention. Blankets, a tool kit, flashlights, antifreeze, a collapsible shovel, an ice scraper, and plenty of bottled water and canned food are also extremely important in the case of a scary roadside emergency in your vehicle. These are all affordable and will save you headaches and give you peace of mind in the long run.
- Make your own survival car heater. If you are stranded for hours or even beyond, it is a good idea to know how to make an emergency heater for you vehicle. This can be done by placing an aluminum soup can in a larger aluminum can like a coffee can and filling the smaller can with a piece of cardboard and rubbing alcohol. Light the cardboard on fire and place it carefully in the can of rubbing alcohol. Then place the smaller can into the larger can to protect you and your family from flames. Though the fire will be small, it should be enough to keep you warm while you wait for help. Place these supplies in your kit.
- Wait for help. Don't try to walk too far and get yourself stuck or lost alone and unprotected.
- Prevent yourself from being stranded in the first place. You can prevent being stranded in the winter by driving safely and cautiously in all circumstances. If winter weather and road conditions are really that dangerous, don't be a fool; don't go out. It's that simple. Sometimes it's better to stay home rather than risk you and your loved ones' safety.
