Be Safe While Traveling

Many of us have a few car care items thrown in the trunk of our cars for emergencies, but do you actually have a car care safety kit? Most drivers don’t, and during winter months, when the days are short and weather can be chilly, it’s even more important. Here are Snap Dog’s must-haves for safe winter travel.

Ice Scraper – Even minimal sleet or the typical Texas “wintry mix” can leave a thin layer of ice on your windshield if you’re not blessed with extra space in the garage to park your car. Most of us park outside! Skip the credit card scraper and pick up an inexpensive long-handled ice scraper to stash in your back seat or trunk.

Hazard Triangles – A blowout on a highway is bad enough. The last thing you want to do during the early evening in the wintertime is change a tire with nothing to let passerby know you’re there. Hazard triangles are inexpensive and offer an extra safety measure for changing a tire or waiting for a tow if your car breaks down or you’re in an accident.

Jumper Cables – What used to be a staple in most peoples’ trunks now seems a little uncommon. Jumper cables are invaluable if you ever break down on the side of the road. Lower temperatures make an ailing battery less likely to start, so be prepared. (If you suspect your battery is bad, you can get a free test at most auto parts stores.)

Water and snacks – It’s rare but not unheard of to get stuck in your car, especially while traveling. Planning a ski trip anytime this winter or early spring? Don’t risk being stuck without sustenance should you get caught in wintery weather.

Flashlight and extra batteries – No matter where you live, there’s always the chance of being stranded should your car break down. Whether it’s dealing with a problem under the hood, changing a tire or digging for jumper cables, you need to be able to see! Stash a bright flashlight and extra batteries in your glove box or console.

Snow chains – Traveling to a snowy locale? Four-wheel drive isn’t essential for driving on snowy roads, especially in parts of the country where roads are kept plowed and sanded in the winter. However, it may be helpful to pick up some snow chains prior to your winter road trip for added peace of mind.

Spare tire – When’s the last time you actually checked your spare tire? Did you know they expire? Take your wheels to your favorite tire repair shop for a quick inspection to ensure your spare is in good shape, especially before your next road trip. If you bought your car used, make sure that the spare is the original manufacturer’s wheel and that it fits your car.

A Clean Car – We believe there’s nothing more essential to a positive driving experience than a clean car. Before your next road trip, stop by Snap Clean for a thorough pre-trip wash, and don’t forget to let us help clean up the funk when you return! Happy winter travels!