No one from Richmond wants to breakdown when they leave home. But, if you do, it's a wonderful feeling to have what you need at hand - a proper winter car kit.

There are a couple of things we can say about this Richmond winter without fear of contradiction; it’s going to be cold and we’re liable to get some snow.

What does this mean to you as someone who drives the roads to and from Richmond? As we all know, it means that you need to take some precautions to ensure that you’re ready for the harsh conditions that are possible these parts in winter.

Precautions start with winterizing and maintaining your vehicle so that you can count on it mechanically. Ensuring that your car, truck or SUV is ready for the season is 90% of the battle. But there’s more to it than that.

Even though you’ve done everything you can to safeguard your vehicle from the inclement weather that is likely around here in the winter, things can still go wrong.

• You could have a flat tire. 
• Your car, truck or SUV may not start
• You can have a problem with your cooling system
• You could have an accident because of slick roads or challenges to your vision while driving
• More

When something goes wrong with your car, truck or SUV in winter you could have more than an inconvenience; you could find yourself in a situation where your health and livelihood are at risk. This is why it’s important to carry appropriate equipment in your vehicle to respond to various situations.

Think about it as your Winter Car Kit that you keep in the vehicle. You want the equipment that will help in whatever emergency comes up.

Here is a list of some of the things you may want to keep in your car, truck or SUV as part of your Winter Car Kit:

• An ice scraper and snow brush
• Jumper cables (not only to start your car but to help start someone else’s car, truck or SUV)
• Snow shovel
• Flashlight
• Reflective signs or road flares
• Kitty Litter (not for the cat but for traction when you’re stuck – pouring some kitty litter in front of the tires can help you get unstuck, in some circumstances)
• Toolbox with basic tools, such as a screwdriver, crescent wrench, hammer, plyers, etc.
• Matches
• A cell-phone charger
• First aid kit
• Water to drink if you’re stuck for a while
• Non-perishable snacks
• Blanket

Of course, the hope is that you won’t need any of these things. But better safe than sorry. Richmond winters can prove challenging. Why take chances?