With the chance of snow in the forecast, it’s so important to plan ahead before taking a road trip or driving a considerable distance. Proper vehicle maintenance and preparation, especially in Oregon, is vital for you and your family’s safety as well as the health of your vehicle. A recent survey by COUNTRY Financial revealed a lack of preparedness of many Americans for severe weather, so consider these tips before hitting the road.

Better safe than sorry

Winter weather can turn a routine trip into a dangerous situation, but being prepared can make all the difference. No one plans to be marooned roadside, but with snow in the forecast, it’s always a possibility.

Pack a winter weather emergency kit

Most drivers have a basic emergency kit in their car: flares, jumper cables, chains perhaps, but have you considered packing a small shovel in your trunk or hauling around a bag of kitty litter? How about a jar of peanut butter?

Hauling that shovel could come in handy if your car ever lands in a ditch. And having that cat litter on standby could offer the much-needed traction you’d need to dig it out. As for the peanut butter, it could provide some protein-packed nourishment in a pinch.

Consider the basics:

  • First Aid Kit
  • Warm clothing, winter boots, gloves
  • Cell phone and car charger
  • Flashlight with new batteries
  • Candle with matches or lighter
  • Ice scraper and snow brush
  • Shovel
  • Hazard sign or brightly colored flag
  • Cat litter or sand
  • Bottled water and non-perishable food items
  • Blanket
  • Battery jump pack or jumper cables

If you live in a rural area or are taking a longer trip, your needs may differ, so consider adding a few extra items to your kit.

Add-on items:

  • Flares and emergency
  • strobes
  • Light sticks
  • Disposable hand warmers
  • Toilet paper
  • Basic tool kit
  • Tire Chains/Tow Rope

In the case of highway accidents or ice storms, motorists may get stranded in groups. Ensure you have enough supplies for you and your family, and pack a little extra to help other stranded motorists. 

You can also buy readymade kits in stores and online. Make sure whatever you buy includes the basics. Also, update your kit twice yearly to ensure your supplies and tools are in good working order.

Maintain Your Vehicle

Winter weather affects our vehicles differently than summer weather. The following are some recommended winter maintenance considerations:

  • Check oil and antifreeze —Engine oil should be checked on a regular basis. Cold weather can affect the thickness of your car’s oil. If it’s too thick, it can prevent your car from starting. Consult your technician to make sure you’re using the best type of oil for your car. Antifreeze can affect your engine, too. It keeps your engine cool in the summer and keeps it from freezing in the winter. While it doesn’t need to be changed as often as your oil, you want to make sure it’s at the appropriate levels to do its job.
  • Check your battery—Cold weather causes added stress to your car’s battery and can cause it to deplete. Check the voltage to see if it needs to be charged or replaced before a road trip or driving to the mountains.
  • Check tires and brakes—Tire pressure can decrease in cold weather, making driving dangerous. Proper tire tread depth and well-working brakes are also vital in wet and snowy conditions. Have your tires and brakes inspected when the cold weather arrives.

It’s always important to be prepared before hitting the road, but winter driving presents a new set of challenges. Keeping these tips in mind can help prevent inconvenient or even perilous situations during your next winter road trip.