Are you prepared for winter driving? Ten essential winter driving kit items

Published 4:30 pm Tuesday, December 18, 2012

With snow in the forecast and with the holidays right around the corner, many Washingtonians will be crossing the mountain passes. AAA encourages everyone to put together a winter driving kit for their car. AAA recommends making sure drivers pack these 10 essential items in their winter driving kit in case they encounter snow and ice:

• Cell phone and charger for making emergency calls

• Warning devices (flares, triangles or other visual alerts)

• First aid kit

• Flashlight with new batteries

• Non-perishable food and water

• Blankets and warm clothing including hat and gloves

• Jumper cables

• Abrasive material (sand or cat litter) or traction mats and a small shovel

• Ice/snow scraper for clearing car and windows

• Tire chains

AAA also recommends that drivers make sure their vehicles are ready for the challenge by checking their fluid levels, tire tread depth and electrical system.