When it comes to winter driving, it pays to think ahead. Icy, wintry weather conditions can make driving dangerous, and if you drive without any kind of foresight, you could fall foul of a sudden blizzard or rapid drop in temperature. There are a range of different accessories that can aid your winter driving. Here are just five to consider.
Blankets. When the temperature drops, most drivers will rely on their car's heating system to keep everybody warm, but sometimes that isn't going to be enough. If the heating system fails, or if the car breaks down, then you’ll quickly need to find other ways to keep warm. Keep a couple of large blankets in the car so that you can keep all your passengers warm if the need arises. Remember also that even if the heating does work, some people may feel the cold more than others. Rather than cook all your passengers for one chilly soul, why not give him or her a blanket and keep everybody happy?
Portable mobile phone charger. Your mobile phone isn't just a means to gossip and keep in touch with your friends. In the middle of a snow storm, it could be your only lifeline. If you need to get hold of emergency assistance, the last thing you need is to find that your mobile phone battery has gone flat. A portable charger will give you enough of a boost to make and receive some calls, and could be vital if you aren't able to use the car's electric system.
Flashlight. In dark, wintry weather, you could be shocked by just how many different uses you can find for a flashlight. You may need a flashlight to make your way safely around your vehicle, or to look for something in the trunk. A flashlight can also be very useful to attract attention in the event of an emergency. Failing that, if you're waiting for recovery, you may need a flashlight just to be able to read a book or newspaper. Don't forget the spare batteries, too.
Keychain lock de-icer. It can be incredibly irritating to find that the locks to your car doors have frozen. Freezing rain can quickly and easily cause this problem, and if you have to wait for them to thaw out, you could be in for a long delay. A lock de-icer is cheap, lightweight, and easy to carry. You can probably buy one from your local service department. All you have to do is press the nozzle of the de-icer into the door flap of the lock cylinder and you should soon be on your way.
Energy bars. If your car breaks down or gets stuck in bad driving conditions, you may find yourself confined to sit and wait for some time. Leaving the car to look for assistance is not always a particularly good idea, but if you're going to sit and wait patiently, you need to be able to maintain your strength and energy. Energy bars are a great way to do this. They are full of energy-boosting calories, they don't take up much space, and they last for ages. That means you don't need to worry about them going stale. Pack a good selection in a plastic box for those winter emergencies.
