EDMONTON – Many parts of Canada have been plunged into a deep-freeze this past week and the extremely cold temperatures present a number of challenges.
While navigating the icy roads might be scary for some, getting stranded on the side of the road is even scarier.
In order to be prepared, experts stress you should have an Emergency Roadside Kit in your vehicle.
“Store your kit inside the vehicle where it’s easily accessible and not frozen when you need it,” says Liam Crotty with the Alberta Motor Association.
“Always keep your gas tank at least half full during cold snaps, fill up before driving out of town and plug in your block heater any time the temperature drops below -15 degrees Celsius,” adds Crotty.
So, what exactly should be in your Emergency Roadside Kit?
· Shovel, candles and a flash light with spare batteries (AMA recommends a hand crank flash light)
· Gloves, toque and a blanket.
· Good quality booster cables
· A car charger for your phone
· a multi-tool and a reflective triangle
· It is good to keep a few protein bars and bring a bottle of water as well
“Keeping warm is essential when you are waiting for help to arrive,” says Global News traffic reporter Daintre Christensen.
“Along with the blankets, candles and food, there are a few other tips to keep in mind. Be sure to always have a fully charged cell phone on hand. Keep the gas tank at least half full in case the wait time is long,” she says.
“Make sure the exhaust pipe is clear of snow if the vehicle is running to avoid carbon monoxide coming into the interior and always let someone know when your expected arrival time is, just in case.”
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