With the polar vortex cold weather wreaking havoc around the continent we thought we’d share some tips on how to keep your car safe in extreme cold.
- Keep your car in the garage if you can. Avoid ice damage and keep it a little warmer by keeping it inside.
- Car batteries become weak in the cold. To save power try to avoid pluggig in electronics (like your phone).
- Frozen locks are bound to happen. Dip your key in rubbing alcohol or use a lighter to warm it before trying to insert it.
- Keep your gas tank full at all time – in case you have to pull over or are stuck somewhere due to emergency circumstances.
- Related to #3 – keep an emergency kit in your car with blanket, ice scraper, flashlight and jumper cables. Also, a single candle (don’t forget a lighter) can keep your car from freezing in an emergency situation; just remember to crack a window.
- Make sure your antifreeze is topped up.
- Check your tire pressure. Cold temperatures reduce the volume of air in the tires and may result in them needing top up.
- Don’t drive if you don’t have to and take it easy when you do!
Stay safe and warm out there.
See also:
- To Insulate or Not? The Great Garage Door Debate
- Get Your Garage Winter Ready
- Preventing 3 Common, Winter-Related Home Issues
