The Eric Factor: 9 things you need in your car

If you were around last winter, you made it through bitter temperatures and biting wind chills just as bad as what weve got now. But just because youve survived previous winters doesnt mean you should just coast through this winter.

Take for example your car. Most of us feel comfortable in our vehicles. Let them warm up a few minutes and youre okay, even with the below-zero temperatures outside. A far cry from days gone by where non-fuel-injected engines were harder to start. While youll probably make it to your destination with no problems, would you be safe if you had engine trouble?

Even if you have a cell phone to call a tow truck or mechanic, you may run out of warmth before they arrive. What then? With wind chills approaching -35 today and tonight, weve got to take a realistic look at the danger if youre traveling and break down.

Best idea is to have a safety kit in your car. Honestly, I have a blanket back there (mainly for the dogs) but in a pinch I could use that to stay warmer. But having a kit is a necessity in my opinion, moreso if you travel long distances or country roads for your commute.

So heres a checklist for what youll need to stay safe.

1. Extra hats, scarves, mittens. If you need to shovel yourself out, you may get these things wet. Theyll do little to keep you warm if theyre wet. Have extras on hand.

2. A small first-aid kit. If youre clumsy like me, you may need this even after the weather warms up.

3. Hand-warmers. For just a couple bucks, these could be a lifesaver if youre stranded in your vehicle without heat.

4. Tea-light candles. Yes, these candles can give off enough heat to warm you up. Since they (and a small lighter) are so lightweight and small, they are a good thing to pack along.

5. Garden trowel. You probably have one of these hanging on a nail in the garage. Smaller is sometimes better out thereespecially when you need to get the snow out from under your tires.

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The Eric Factor: 9 things you need in your car