WASHINGTON D.C., DC — If you found your car to be ill-prepared for this past snowstorm, now is the time to prepare for the next one!
Here’s a list of tools that can help keep you safe during a snowstorm:
An ice scraper
A snow brush
A Blanket
Water
A first-aid kit
Non-perishable Snacks
A shovel
A flashlight
Jumper cables
Tool kit
Flares
Reflective triangles
Portable charger
Phone cord
Kitty litter
Getting everything on that list can get pretty pricey. So, let's trim it down to a few essential items that you can get at the dollar store (or at least a similar version) or might already have at home.
Ice scraper/Snow Brush- Low Cost
An ice scraper and snow brush usually come together in one apparatus. An easy way to recreate this is to use a kitchen broom and an old credit card. Your broom will sweep away the snow and might even reach farther across your car than a normal snow brush. An old credit card will scrape away the ice on your windshield and mirrors will little elbow grease.
A Blanket- FREE
If you know a snow storm is coming, grab a blanket from home to keep in the car for a few days. It could even be the comforter from your bed! As long as it is something that will keep you warm in the event that you get stuck without heat in your car.
Food and Water- Low Cost
If you already have a few non-perishable snacks and bottles of water at home, throw a few of them in the car. If you are stranded on the side of the road for a while you will need something to eat and drink. Most dollar stores carry large jugs of water and lots of snack options.
Shovel- Low Cost
A small shovel can make a real difference when digging out a stuck car. It can keep your hands free from touching the freezing snow. Check out the garden section of a budget store for small shovels.
Flashlight- Low Cost
Most times when we need a flashlight, we use our phones, right? Well, if you are stuck in your snowed-in car you will want to preserve the battery on your phone as much as possible. Invest in a small flashlight that can help you see but also help others see you in case you get stuck in a dark area.
Kitty Litter- Low Cost
Yes, you read that right, kitty litter. Non-clumping kitty litter can help melt ice and create traction on slippery roads. Small bags of it can be found at most dollar stores.
The other items on the list like jumper cables, tools, flares, and a portable charger will cost you a bit more but can be very helpful if you find yourself stranded on the side of the road.
With just a few items, that you might already have around the house, you can be sure your vehicle is prepared for the next snowstorm.
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