Ewa Malcher
The Thanksgiving week ahead is one typically filled with travel, a busy schedule and potentially bad weather.
“Don’t let this hectic time of year sidetrack you from safety on the road,” said FEMA Region V Administrator Andrew Velasquez III. “Take some time now to talk to your family about how to handle a travel emergency, and stockpile necessary supplies in your car in case you become stranded.”
Remember to take these simple steps to help ensure safe travel for you and your family:
- Know the risks before leaving home. Listen to the radio or television for the latest weather forecasts and road conditions. If bad weather is forecast, drive only if absolutely necessary.
- Keep your gas tank above half-full. When temperatures are extremely cold, condensation can build up in a near-empty gas tank, potentially freezing fuel lines and leaving you stranded.
- Check or have a mechanic check the following items on your vehicle:
- Antifreeze levels - ensure they are sufficient to avoid freezing.
- Brakes - check for wear and fluid levels.
- Exhaust system - repair as necessary. Carbon monoxide is deadly and usually gives no warning.
- Fuel and air filters - replace as needed.
- Battery and ignition system - make sure they’re clean and functioning properly.
- Heater and defroster - ensure they work properly.
- Lights and flashing hazard lights - check for serviceability.
- Thermostat - ensure it works properly.
- Windshield wiper equipment - repair any problems and maintain proper washer fluid level.
- Install good winter tires - make sure the tires have adequate tread.
- Have an emergency supply kit for your car in case it’s needed. Include the following items:
- Jumper cables - consider including flares or reflective triangles.
- Flashlights - with extra batteries.
- First aid kit - remember any necessary medications, baby food or diapers.
- Food - non-perishable food such as canned food, and protein rich foods like nuts and energy bars.
- Manual can opener
- Water - at least 1 gallon of water per person a day for at least 3 days.
- Basic toolkit - pliers, wrench, screwdriver.
- Radio - battery or hand cranked.
- Cat litter or sand - for better tire traction.
- Shovel
- Ice scraper
- Clothes - warm clothes, gloves, hat, sturdy boots, jacket and an extra change of clothes for the cold.
- Blankets or sleeping bags
- Charged cell phone - and car charger.
- Pet supplies - food and water.
You can always find valuable information to help you prepare for winter at www.ready.gov/winter-weather, and click here to watch our video on preparing your car for weather emergencies. Bookmark FEMA’s mobile site http://m.fema.gov, or download the FEMA app today to have vital information just one click away.
FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
