What to Include in your Winter Roadside Kit

It can be quite hard trying to find someone in a Canadian community that has never had the misfortune of being stuck in snow. Whether they blundered into a ditch or were buried overnight, there are countless stories about chilling roadside waits for help to arrive. Because unpredictable winter weather conditions can victimize anyone, it is important to carry a roadside kit in every vehicle you own. Assembling one of these kits is a small investment that can literally be the difference between life or death in the event of an accident. Furthering this month's theme of winter safety tips, we present to you a simple guide to help you assemble a functional roadside kit.  

• First aid first. The most important piece of your roadside arsenal is the fist aid kit. A few bandaids won't do. Include bandages, tweezers, scissors, sanitary latex gloves, tape, medications, rubbing alcohol, and antiseptic solutions. 

• Tools. You may need to tackle impromptu roadside repairs. Don't forget a screwdriver, wrench, hammer, jack, jumper cables, vice grip, or folding knife. Of course, in the winter this list will also include an ice scraper and shovel. 

• Warming items. Long waits can be very dangerous at roadside without a good collection of blankets, gloves, socks, and hats in your vehicle. You may also consider chemical hand-warmers and mylar blankets.  

• Flashlight. You will need to see, whether you are doing a roadside medical treatment, repair, or just a bit of reading to pass the time. Bring multiple flashlights and back-up batteries. 

• Stay seen. Pack small fluorescent cones and flares to alert drivers of your condition, and to keep them from colliding with you. 

• Food. Non-perishable items only. Protein bars, granola bars, beef-jerky, and dried fruits are recommended. 

• Find an appropriate duffel bag. Keep everything together in one kit so that items aren't rolling under car seats, costing you searching time in an emergency situation. Find a big and rugged duffel bag that can hold all of your items.