Nine essential items to keep in your car before winter
A checklist of nine items drivers should carry in their car before cold weather sets in, from winter tyres and snow chains to jump leads and an emergency kit.
Equipment that belongs in a car before winter can reduce the chance of being stranded in cold weather. Webtekno has compiled a list of nine products. Some directly affect driving safety, while others save time when dealing with snow and ice.
Winter tyres and snow chains
Winter tyres top the list. As temperatures fall, the rubber in summer tyres can stiffen, and grip weakens on cold, wet or snowy roads. Winter tyres are designed to offer better traction and braking in low temperatures. Tread depth, tyre age and correct air pressure still matter, however.
Drivers in areas with heavy snowfall should also keep snow chains in the boot, since winter tyres may not be enough to move the vehicle in every condition. Chains improve traction on suitable surfaces and under proper use. Choose a model that matches your tyre size and the manufacturer's instructions for chain use.
Glass, battery and snow tools
An ice scraper and snow brush are the practical way to clear a frozen windscreen. Pouring hot water on the glass risks cracking it because of the sudden change in temperature. Winter screenwash is formulated not to freeze at low temperatures, and it helps when mud, salt and dirt cover the windscreen. Check the washer reservoir before winter arrives.
Cold weather can strain the battery, and a morning that begins with a car that won't start is a common problem, especially with older batteries. A jump lead or portable jump starter solves that. A folding snow shovel takes up little space in the boot and is useful for clearing snow in front of the wheels.
Preparing for getting stuck
If a car is spinning its wheels in snow, pressing harder on the accelerator can dig it in deeper. A traction mat or sand helps the tyres grip the surface. Recovering a stuck vehicle requires a tow rope, which must have a load capacity suited to the vehicle's weight and intended use.
The list ends with an emergency kit suited to winter. It can include a blanket, spare gloves and socks, a torch, a first aid kit, a fully charged power bank, drinking water and non-perishable snacks.
This article was compiled with the help of AI from information published by Webtekno.
