You never know when your car may break down. But if it does, are you prepared?
Here are some helpful tips from MoDOT:
Equip Your Vehicle With:
- A flashlight with extra batteries
- A first-aid kit
- Necessary medications
- Blankets and/or sleeping bags
- Extra mittens or gloves, socks, a warm cap and rain gear
- A small sack of sand to use for traction under your wheels
- A small shovel
- Booster cables
- Small tools - pliers, wrench, screwdriver
- A brightly colored cloth to use as a flag
- Nonperishable foods
- Bottled water
During the Trip:
- If possible, postpone your travel until roads have been plowed, treated, and cleared. You don't want to slide off the road, and we don't want to plow around disabled vehicles.
- Slow down and adjust your speed to the conditions.
- Give snowplows plenty of room, and don't pass them.
- Always wear your seat belt.
- Remember that driving is most dangerous when temperatures are near 32 degrees.
- Watch for other vehicles having problems with road conditions.
- Keep mirrors, windows and lights clean; keep your lights on.
- Don't pass other vehicles on or near bridges.
- Keep your fuel tank at least half full.
- If you don't feel comfortable driving, pull off of the highway and park at the first safe place.
If You're Trapped in Your Car:
- Stay in the vehicle. Don't leave to search for help. It's easy to become disoriented and lost in blowing and drifting snow.
- Display a trouble sign. Hang a brightly colored cloth on the antenna.
- Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour. Run the heater and turn on the dome light only when the vehicle is running.
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow, and open a window slightly for ventilation.
- Clap hands and move your arms and legs occasionally. Don't stay in one position for too long.
- If more than one person is in the car, take turns sleeping.
- Huddle together for warmth.
- Use newspapers, maps and even car mats for added insulation.
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