Winters are exciting. As a part of the holiday season, we get to meet family and friends. It is the time to spread joy and cheer all around you. And this experience is enhanced by the serene white landscape. Snow brings along a much-needed sense of calm and quiet in our surroundings. It makes the sweetness of family and hot chocolate even sweeter. But keeping the warmth of togetherness aside, the winter season can be extremely dangerous in terms of driving. Roads are slippery, the expanse of white is almost blinding, and we see cars stuck at every turn and junction. Driving in the winter requires a higher level of preparedness. We should be ready with the right gear and accessories, to combat anything that comes our way. Today, we bring to you a list of accessories and items that you should consider buying if you drive in the snow.
Snow Tires
Many people are unaware, but brands make special tires for the winter season. These tires are made from special compounds that provide for more grip and traction in snow. The tread pattern on these tires is also different with wider gaps. In several countries, there are separate regulatory bodies that check that the tires pass certain tests.
Ice Scraper
In winters, it so happens every day that you wake up to your car is completely covered with snow. It is very-very important for one to remove all the snow from your car, and not just the windows. If you drive without removing the snow from the roof, it is possible that upon braking the snow will slide down from the top and cover the entire windscreen. Many a time, the snow freezes over the car and is difficult to be removed by hand. A snow scraper can come in handy with this task. You can break this ice with the help of the scraper and remover it with the brush that comes attached to it.
Snow Chains or Tire Chains
These are chains that are fitted on the tires. They are used to maximize traction in snow and ice. They are generally fitted to the front wheels or the drive wheels of a car. This helps the driver to control and maneuver the car in extremely slippery conditions. These chains are not always made of metals or steel and can be made of outer materials as well. Using these chains reduces the speed and fuel efficiency of the car, but provides good traction.
Sunglasses
Those aviators might seem like a summer accessory, but they are very helpful while driving in snow. On a sunny day after a night full of snowfall, the white expanse acts as a reflector of the sun’s rays. At any point while driving the glare can blind you for some seconds, and the slightest time is enough for a mishap. So, it is advised that you wear sunglasses while driving in snow, on a sunny day.
Also read: Tips To Protect Your Car During The Heat Wave
Jumper Cables
Cold weather gets to your battery faster than any other part of the car. The battery can die out quicker, and now the car won’t start. At this point, you can connect your car’s battery to another car’s battery to ‘Jump Start’ it. This requires a specific set of high-grade cables called ‘Jumper Cables’. Having these cables handy can save you a lot of time, and can prevent you from being on the road.
While we have covered most of the important accessories above, there are some household items that you should consider keeping in your car for the winter. The cold weather and the risky driving conditions make it very easy for one to be stranded on the road. May it be due to a storm or being stuck in the snow away from home. In such a case, the following items will help you get out of that situation or to keep you safe till the authorities arrive;
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- Flashlight
- Emergency flares or Reflectors
- First Aid Kit
- Blankets and/or other winter clothing
- Water and non-perishable food items
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