How should I prepare for Virginia winter driving? | Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp

There are certain steps you should take to make sure your vehicle is ready for any kind of weather you may encounter. This includes having an emergency kit in your vehicle that contains:

  • Basic toolkit
  • Blanket and warm clothes
  • Cell phone charger
  • Emergency flares
  • First Aid kit
  • Flashlight
  • Gallon of water (more if you are traveling distances)
  • Jumper cables
  • Kitty litter, sand, or road salt
  • Non-perishable food such as canned food, energy bars and nuts
  • Shovel, broom, and ice scraper

You also want to make sure that your vehicle is mechanically ready for the winter, too. Have your mechanic check the following:

  • Antifreeze levels
  • Battery and ignition system
  • Brakes
  • Exhaust system
  • Fuel and air filters
  • Heater and defroster
  • Lights and flashing hazard lights
  • Oil
  • Thermostat
  • Windshield wiper equipment and washer fluid level