Maintaining a vehicle is always important, but especially during Wisconsin’s winter conditions.
Dan Vlach, General Manager at Abby Ford, encourages vehicle owners and drivers to keep their fuel tank at least half-full to prevent fuel lines from freezing and to provide necessary fuel if they become stranded.
“Tires should also have good tread and be properly inflated,” he added. “Check the battery, anti-freeze, and cooling systems, and replace worn windshield wipers.”
Even when the best preparations are made, emergencies can happen. Having a winter storm survival kit is important.
“If you end up stranded in winter weather, it can be dangerous and even deadly,” said Vlach. “Having an emergency kit can literally save your life. They are easy and affordable to put together, and in Wisconsin, a necessity.”
Items to include in a Winter Storm Survival Kit:
-Blankets or sleeping bags
-Extra stocking caps, warm socks, gloves/mittens
-Flashlight with extra batteries
-First-aid kit
-Booster cables and windshield brush/scraper
-Drinking water and high-calorie, non-perishable food (trail mix, energy/protein bars)
-Sand or cat litter for traction
-Cell phone adapter/charger
“Keep your winter storm survival kit in the back seat instead of the trunk, in case the trunk freezes shut,” said Vlach. “Have a safe winter and call us if your vehicle needs service!”
