February 1, 2022 – A winter storm warning is in effect for central Illinois from 9 p.m. Tuesday to 6 p.m. Thursday.
While predictions for snow accumulation on the ground have increased from day to day, all we can do is prepare for really bad weather, regardless of what any news channel is claiming.
Here are some things you should have in your car or check for before hitting the road:
- Blankets and Warm clothing. (Boots, gloves, hats, etc.) We are not planning a campout here, you never know when your car will get stuck.
- Ice Scraper with Brush. Even if you keep your car in the garage, you may walk out of the grocery store to an iced over windshield.
- Jumper Cables. Cold batteries could land you in some trouble.
- Spare Tires and a Jack. Dangerous things can be hidden underneath the snow, and most people remember to have a spare tire, but it’s important to make sure you have a jack as well.
- A Basic First Aid Kit. Something always good to have.
- Tow Rope or Strap. Whether it is to be a good samaritan or to tow your own dead car, this one could pay dividends.
- Bag of Abrasive Material. This one is key. You can use sand, salt, cat litter, or even traction mats to save yourself from getting stuck.
- Snacks. If you don’t have kids, you may have to plan this one out. But making sure you have some dry food such as granola bars or jerky is important and could even save you a trip to the drive-thru if necessary.
- Phone Battery Pack. I had an iPhone 6 until just about a month ago, and that baby went from 100% to 20% in a matter of 50 minutes. A charged-up battery pack (and charging cord) could be a life-saver.
- Flashlight. Although the snow will be white, its job is not to light the way for you as you are changing a spare tire. Be smart.
In addition to all these precautionary items, it is of the utmost importance that we drive safely as well. Whether you have experience driving in the snow should not give you the confidence to not pay extra attention to the road. Keep others safe and return home in one piece.
