Butler repair shops talk importance of emergency kits in cars
Precautions are key to driving in the winter, according to two Butler repair shops.
Though Erin Conley of Wrecktify Collision in Butler sees crashes happen throughout the year, winter and its snow, slush, ice and cold temperatures bring their own set of challenges, resulting in an uptick in vehicles in need of repairs.
Being stranded on the side of the road can be a frightening experience, but there are few items you can keep packed in your vehicle in case of emergency situations, she said.
“Keep your phone charged, your gas tank full, keep a blanket in your trunk, and be as cautious as you can,” Conley said.
The National Weather Service also recommends carrying an extra charger for the phone at this time of year.
Mark Iarrapino, of Iarrapino’s Muffler & Brake Shop, in Butler, both recommended motorists have good windshield wipers and de-icer along with a snow brush.
“Not clearing your vehicle of snow and ice before driving is a common cause of weather-related accidents,” Conley said.
Both Iarrapino and Conley stressed the importance of making sure cars are equipped with the necessary items to handle winter weather, like jumper cables, flashlights with extra batteries, a basic tool kit, a blanket for emergency warmth or to place on the ground while working on the vehicle, extra winter clothing, flares, water and nonperishable food items.
Despite a driver’s best efforts, accidents can still happen. If you find yourself in unfortunate circumstance, that kit could come in handy.
Conley reminded drivers the importance of getting to a safe location and checking everyone for injuries.
If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately, she said.
The next step is to get the vehicle off the road and to a safe location, if possible, she said.
“If you cannot get your vehicle off the road, call 911 immediately,” Conley said.
Turning hazard lights on while waiting for help to arrive increases the visibility for 911, the tow truck, and other drivers, she continued.
Once safe, she reminds drivers to take photos of the accident and photos of the other parties license plate and insurance card.
“This is the fastest way to exchange information,” she said.
If unable to take a photo, write down their license plate number, make and model of the vehicle, driver’s full name, insurance information from the insurance card, and a telephone number, she explained. In addition, it can be helpful to note what visible damage is done to the vehicles. This will be helpful when filing a claim with the insurance company, she said.
“Small accidents do not typically need to be called in as long as there is no property damage, no one is injured, and the vehicle does not need to be towed,” said Conley.
Items to include in car’s emergency winter supply kit:
Cellphone and charger
First aid kit
Jumper cables
Flares
Water and snacks
Flashlight
Bag of sand or cat litter
Blanket
Shovel, ice scraper or snowbrush
Boots, mittens and warm clothes
Tow rope
Tire chains or snow tires
Additionally, keep a full tank of gas.
Information provided by the National Weather Service.
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