Traversing snowy or icy roads is challenging, requiring total focus. Because surprises may happen, here are several pieces of gear to keep you on your way.
To Be Safe, Be Seen
Garage Monkey Engineering LED Safety FlaresIf an accident results in your car becoming stuck on or near the road, it’s important to make sure that approaching drivers can see your vehicle. These high-tech flares are much safer than traditional road flares that emit flames and heat. Multiple modes allow them to be used as a flashlight, a strobe, or a rotating beacon for up to 36 hours. They are compact and waterproof and are powered by three AAA batteries.
The ‘Just in Case’ Collection
Kosin Emergency Kit
This compact kit is stocked with items designed to keep you safe in unexpected situations while driving through or across remote areas. Organized and housed in a sturdy storage container, and weighing just 1.4 pounds, it could make the difference between experiencing a mere inconvenience or an ordeal. It includes a flashlight, a knife, screwdrivers, a thermal blanket, a fire starter, a multifunction tool card, and more useful items.
Get a Grip
Peerless Super Z6 Safety ChainsIcy roads can be treacherous, making having a set of tire chains good insurance against a loss of traction or skidding. Unlike traditional bulky metal chains, these are designed to be easy to install or remove and have integral rubber tensioners that eliminate the need to stop and re-tighten them after installation. The unique design is said to provide superior traction and more durability than metal chains, with less potential for vehicle damage, too.
Get Unstuck
Maxtrax MKII Vehicle Recovery BoardsIf you want “get home” insurance for a trip on snow-covered roads (or in an unexpected blizzard), consider a set of these recovery boards. Constructed of tough injection-molded, reinforced polymers and guaranteed as unbreakable, they weigh 7 1/2 pounds each and are designed to easily and quickly get a vehicle that’s stuck in snow “unstuck” (they are also handy for mud and sand). Originally made for off-road use, they can get just about any vehicle back on the road.
I Can See Clearly!
Ice Scraper and Snow Broom ComboUnlike the typical ice scrapers that fit in the glove box but are too small to do a good job of clearing the entire windshield, this example extends to provide a full 52 inches of reach and incorporates a snow broom to whisk away snow and chunks of ice, plus a squeegee to remove water. The steel handle features cushioning for a secure grip, even if wearing gloves.
