Dec 30 2008
Vehicle Survival Kits
Following an snowstorm that blanketed much of Washington, travelers over Snoqualmie Pass found themselves stranded for hours one day a few years ago. Much to their dismay, they were unprepared for the snow and pass closures. Many of the unfortunate commuters had no food or water, and no long term warmth without using their car, which presented a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. After hours of waiting, the passes finally opened again, but not without leaving one thing evident in many of their minds: be prepared!
America is a traveling nation, and it becomes more and more noticeable to me as I travel just how many cars are on the roads each day. No doubt you have been stuck in the “rush hour commute,” hurrying to return to your waiting friends and family. One thing I often wonder is the amount of people who are truly prepared if something were to happen to them on the road. This is especially true for recreationists who are traveling a long distance through several climates and regions without easy access to condition and traffic information. When traveling, inconveniences and problems like a longer than normal commute come up. However, when road closures, mother nature and other people get you in a bind, there are some important necessities that can help ease your predicament.
Among the endless list should be a gallon of water, flares, notepad and paper, food, emergency blanket, toolkit, flashlight, cell phone, tire gauges, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, pocket knife, gloves, emergency radio, and chemical lightsticks. With these, you will be prepared in a wide variety of circumstances to be able to wait it out confortably and safely. Remember to be safe traveling to your recreation spot, and have fun in the snow!
