Navigating a Car Breakdown

Breaking down can be stressful, inconvenient and sometimes scary. The experience is even harder to navigate if your car stalls and leaves you stranded in the winter. You can't forecast breakdown, but you can prepare for the worst-case scenario. Be sure to always charge your phone and carry a remote charger. Often, newer phone models are equipped with the capability to text someone and pinpoint your location. If you were not prepared for a winter breakdown with an emergency kit, here are some basic tips to help you stay safe until help arrives. 

1. Don't Walk for Help: Although it's tempting to walk to the nearest gas station for assistance, you will risk frost bite or being hit by another car, especially if visibility is poor.  

2. Clear Your Car: A snow covered car is almost impossible to find during a winter storm, so take some time and clear as much snow off your car as you can. Be sure to be in a safe spot. 

3. Run Your Engine: If your car is operational, run the engine once an hour to stay warm. You should always start a trip with a full tank of gas to allow you to run the engine for 15 minutes each hour until help comes. Make sure you clear snow away from your vehicle's exhaust pipe, and crack the window if needed.

4. Turn Off the Lights:  Your hazard and dome lights can easily drain your battery. If you need to use a light to be easily located by police or a tow truck, the dome light is preferred, since it uses less juice. 

5. Stay Alert: Staying awake will help reduce your vulnerability to cold-related health injuries. Sing songs, tell jokes, and keep your mind occupied so panic doesn't set in.

6. Keep Warm: Move as much as possible in your vehicle to avoid frost bite. If you are not alone, huddle with other passengers to create additional body heat. 

Before you break down, be prepared! Be sure to keep bottles of water, granola bars and blankets in your vehicle. You can also assemble an emergency car kit with items such as road flares and a flashlight.