What to Keep in Your Chicago Winter Car Kit

As winter approaches, it’s important to make sure that you’re prepared for potentially hazardous weather conditions. From slick roads that make drivers more prone to accidents to freezing temperatures, the last thing you want is for the unpredictability of winter to get the best of you when out on Evergreen Park roads. 

This is why the service experts here at Oak Lawn Toyota have put together this guide on what you should keep in your winter car safety kit. From blankets and gloves to a tow strap and fire extinguisher, we’ve included all of the materials that you should have at the ready when the temperature starts to drop. We’ve even detailed how you can prepare your vehicle for wintery weather! Keep reading to learn more. 

What Should I Keep in My Emergency Tool Kit for the Car?

Winter means that Orland Park drivers have to deal with slick, icy roads, snow, and many other elements that can make driving difficult. Our teams want to ensure that you have the necessary items in the event you were to get stranded or your vehicle breaks down. If you want the best car emergency kit, here are some items that you should include: 

• Battery cables
• Ice scraper
• Portable shovel
• Items to help when stranded: flashlight, warning signaling cones, backup batteries, safety vest, and roadside triangles
• Basic first-aid kit
• Cell phone charger
• Camera
• Flat tire kit
• Common winter items: gloves, blanket, rain poncho, rags, boots, socks, a hat. Pack anything to keep you warm if you get stranded during a snowstorm. 

The Best Items for Long Road Trips in the Wintertime 

If you plan taking a road trip or driving long distances, it’s important to have these items on hand in your winter car safety kit: 

• Tow strap: If you get stuck in a ditch, this tool will allow another vehicle to pull you out. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual about the proper way to use a tow strap. 
• Fire extinguisher: In the event of a small fire, it’s always good to have a fire extinguisher on hand. Make sure that the fire extinguisher is intended for automotive use. 
• Non-perishable items and water: Keep long-lasting food like granola and protein bars in your kit.

What to Do if You Get Stranded During the Winter

If you ever get stranded in Oak Lawn during inclement weather conditions, it’s important to stay inside or close to your vehicle as possible. You should never leave your vehicle and venture out on your own. Emergency responders will have a much easier time locating your vehicle if you’re nearby. 

How to Prepare Your Car for Winter

Whether you’re used to Chicago snow storms or you’re new to the city’s conditions during the winter months, it’s always best to prepare your car ahead of time. Now that you know what to keep in your winter car safety kit in the event of an emergency, here’s how you can prepare your vehicle for the harshness of winter weather:

• Get a tune-up: Schedule a service appointment at Oak Lawn Toyota or a nearby service center so technicians can ensure that everything in your car is working properly. You should fill up your windshield wiper reservoir and inquire about potentially switching to a winter-grade oil.
• Inspect your tires: Decreasing temperatures will impact your tire pressure, which in turn will affect your vehicle’s handling. You’ll need to make sure that your tires are properly inflated, or you may want to consider upgrading to winter tires. 
• Check your car’s exterior: Make sure that your headlights are working properly and replace the bulbs if necessary. You’ll also want to check your windshield wipers to see if they’re functioning properly. 

Get Prepared for a Chicago Winters With Oak Lawn Toyota

Have any additional questions about what to keep in your Chicago winter car kit? Give us a call at 708-406-7331 today! Our team is committed to helping you stay safe on Countryside this winter. If you found this article helpful, be sure to check out more of our service tips and tricks so you can learn more about car care!