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Emergency kits vital during Saskatchewan’s record-breaking cold snap

While homes can typically weather the cold snap, people in Saskatchewan often forget to make sure vehicles are ready for what is to come. Matt Meyers / Global News

REGINA – If you like the cold, you are living in the right place. On Saturday morning, Saskatchewan froze itself a spot in history.

“We’ve just been in a perfect setup for that cold arctic air to come down into Saskatchewan. This February is the coldest in 20 years in Saskatoon and the coldest in about 35 years in Regina,” said John Paul Cragg, Environment Canada’s warning preparedness meteorologist.

The frigid air broke 23 records around the province, making venturing outside extremely dangerous.

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MORE: Most of Saskatchewan under wind chill warning

While homes can typically withstand the cold snap, people often forget to make sure their vehicles are ready for what’s to come.

“It’s like everything else – maintenance is key. Some motorists will drive year-round and when it comes to the winter months, they won’t do checks,” said Craig Hooper, an automotive technician in Regina.

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Experts say it’s important to keep a close eye on tire pressure, coolant and battery life.

But the most important thing is often left behind.

“Especially with the weather we’re feeling right now, the emergency kit could be the difference between life and death,” said Ken Crowley, Canadian Tire store manager in Regina.

Motorists are encouraged to pack at least a cell phone, blanket, candle and flashlight in the event they become stranded.

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