In treacherous weather conditions, you probably want to stay home, but that\u2019s not always possible, especially during the winter months. Sleet, ice and snow can make for a tough drive, but as long as you<\/span> take it slow<\/a><\/strong> and pay attention to the road, you can make it to your destination safely. At the same time, it\u2019s important to carry certain winter car accessories and must-have items when the weather isn\u2019t cooperating.<\/span><\/p>\n 1. Ice Scraper and Brush<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Never take to the road without an ice scraper and brush on hand. These two-in-one devices can make the difference between you seeing the road or having your vision obstructed. Keep the ice scraper and brush in your glove box for easy access. It\u2019s also smart to store a second one in your home for those mornings when your car is iced over.<\/span><\/p>\n You should also have streak-free windshield wipers installed, and your heating system should be in optimal condition so it can keep your defrosters working.<\/span><\/p>\n 2. Emergency Kit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n If your car breaks down, calling for roadside assistance is one option. However, if you\u2019re out of cellphone range or the repair is minor, you may have to handle the problem yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n Your standard emergency kit may not be enough during the winter, so expand it to include gloves, a snow shovel, an all-purpose travel blanket, an emergency warmer pack and an adult poncho. Double-check your kit to ensure it includes necessities like reflective triangles, a first-aid kit, flat tire fixer, duct tape, tools and extra batteries for your flashlight.<\/span><\/p>\n 3. Jumper Cables<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Regardless of the season, jumper cables are a must-have accessory. Some emergency kits contain them, but they\u2019re generally 4- or 6-gauge cables. Instead, choose a professional-grade 2-gauge jumper cables, as the wires are thicker and will start your car faster. Further, the cables should be at least 20 feet long to allow enough room between vehicles. Keep your jumper cables with your emergency kit in your vehicle\u2019s rear storage compartment.<\/span><\/p>\n 4. Traction Material<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Another must-have item among winter car accessories is some type of traction material. If you get stuck, your winter tires may not be enough to get you going again, and kitty litter or sand can provide the required grip. Ice melt is also handy, as it can remove frozen obstacles that your shovel cannot dispense. If you get caught without traction material, you can also use your car\u2019s floor mats, explains<\/span> Consumer Reports<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n Get Road Ready<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n Don\u2019t think for a moment that you should take to the road without your car in top condition. From changing the oil to replacing the air filter and flushing the radiator fluid, your car\u2019s essential maintenance tasks and when to complete them are outlined in your owner\u2019s manual. If your car isn\u2019t ready, then it\u2019s best to stay home.<\/span><\/p>\n You should also listen to the local weather reports to see if driving is restricted in certain areas. This means you may not be allowed to take to the road without winter tires or chains.<\/span><\/p>\n No matter the season, always take to the road with a full tank of gas. A properly inflated spare tire and jack, a phone charger and a\u00a0<\/span>tire pressure<\/a> <\/strong>gauge are essential items too. Finally, if your trip takes you far from home, include a blanket, dried food and water.<\/span><\/p>\n For more information on how to clean battery terminals, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local<\/span> NAPA AUTO PARTS store<\/a><\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n Photo Credit:\u00a0<\/span>First Snow, Riga 2014<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>by<\/span>\u00a0Karlis Dambrans<\/a>\u00a0<\/strong>(<\/span>CC BY 2.0<\/a><\/strong>).<\/span><\/em><\/p>\n