Travel Safely This Winter

Taking a road trip this winter? Don’t set off without emergency supplies. In this season of cold and flu viruses, fast-moving storms, and changing road conditions, it pays to equip yourself for the worst until you’re safely home.

First Aid for the Journey

Armed with a traveler’s first aid kit, you can manage most minor injuries and illnesses on the spot. The American College of Emergency Physicians advises travelers to pack a tote bag with these helpful items:

• An extra supply of all your medicines (about 50 percent more than you think you’ll need)
• A spare pair of prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
• Antihistamines and decongestants for runny or stuffy noses
• “Upset stomach” medicine for nausea, diarrhea or motion sickness
• Over-the-counter pain reliever tablets for headaches, body pain, fever, or minor sprains or strains (If traveling with kids, pack children’s formulas of these medicines.)
• Bandages (assorted sizes), first aid tape, elastic wrap and gauze
• Antiseptic wipes to clean hands or wounds
• Antibiotic ointment for treating burns, cuts and scrapes
• Thermometer, tweezers and scissors
• Rubber gloves

If you get stranded in your car, stay inside — unless help is clearly visible within 100 yards. Clear away snow from the car’s exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. For warmth, turn on your car engine every hour and run the heater for about 10 minutes. Wrap up in a blanket or put on extra clothes. To increase your visibility, raise your car hood or tie a cloth to your antenna.

Weathering the Storm

Every winter, severe storms, accidents, and unmanageable road conditions leave motorists stranded. In freezing temperatures, without proper supplies, the wait can be miserable — and even deadly.

Before driving in wet, icy or snowy conditions, “winterize” your car. Make sure the entire vehicle — especially brakes, battery and wipers — is in good working order. Keep the gas tank near full to prevent ice buildup in the fuel lines. Before leaving home, check the radio, TV or Internet for road conditions and storm advisories. Inform somebody of your travel route and expected arrival time.

Along with your first aid kit, keep these emergency supplies in your car:

• A battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio (broadcasts 24-hour weather reports)
• Cell phone, flashlight and extra batteries
• A three-day supply of bottled water, canned or dried foods, and a can opener
• Windshield scraper, paper towels, jumper cables and snow chains
• Blankets or sleeping bags and warm clothes (boots, jacket and hat)
• Nonclumping cat litter or sand for tire traction
• Tool kit
• Bright-colored flag

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