3 Essential Things to Stay Safe in the Car During Winter

With the ending of October, the minds of many begin to wander from fall to winter. While winter doesn't technically start until December, the temperatures do not reflect that. It is vital that you are prepared when you get in your vehicle for ways to stay warm and safe. You never know when your vehicle will break down or a storm preventing you from reaching your destination. Before you throw a coat and mittens on your child, read over the top five ways to keep them and yourself safe in your vehicle.

1. NEVER use heavy coats in car seats

One of the WORST things you can do for your child is have them in a heavy coat when they are strapped into the car seat. The straps of the car seat harness are designed to be taut against your child, with only a couple finger slack. This is not possible when your child has on a heavy coat. There are many companies that make coats that are designed to go over the harness, with CJ's Kids Cozy Woggle as one of them.

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2. ALWAYS have blankets and water in the vehicle

Your car should have a few warm blankets, single use hand warmers, and bottles of water. Make sure you take the water in when you are not in the vehicle to prevent it from freezing. People remember to drink water in the summer because they are sweating up a storm. However, they do not realize the amount of water they lose in the winter through the condensation in their breath. Your body is over half water and relies on that to help maintain body temperature, cognitive function, as well as healthy organ function. Staying warm and hydrated will be a necessity if your vehicle breaks down.

3. Winter Car Kit

Your car should have an emergency kit in it that changes with the season. During the winter, you will want to make sure you have the following items in your vehicle.

• Small shovel
• Kitty litter
• Ice scraper WITH a broom
• Flashlight
• Battery powered radio (with extra batteries)
• Tow rope & jumper cables (cars do struggle with the colder temperatures)
• Chargers for phones
• Activities for the children

More importantly than just having the kit in your car, make sure you have it somewhere accessible. Remember that trunks will seal shut, so consider placing items under seats as you can. If you have a minivan that has storage for the seats, store the items in those compartments.

Save the Children is an organization that is designed to help people prepare for disasters before they happen. You can find information on prep lists and take the pledge to protect children by being prepared.

Yes, that is THE Lassie!