Tips for being stranded in car
By: Web Producer
Updated: January 2, 2008
Indiana State Police offer tips for being stranded in car
With the temperatures below freezing, a vehicle becoming disabled can make for a life or death situation.
The following are a few tips the Indiana State Police say you can follow that could save your life:
Before you leave check the weather forecast and let someone know your route of travel.
Always keep your gas tank full when driving in cold weather.
Carry a winter survival kit in your car which is to include: blankets, flashlight, extra batteries, brightly colored cloth, sand or a bag of cat litter, shovel, candles and matches, non perishable high calorie foods, (nuts, raisins, and candy bars), newspapers (for insulation), a first aid kit and jumper cables.
Do not leave your car if stranded, it is your best protection. Do not panic, an idling car only uses one gallon of gas per hour.
Roll down a window a very small amount for fresh air.
Make sure the cars exhaust pipe is not blocked to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Leave your dome light on.
If at all possible carry a cell phone, and call 911.
The tips provided sound simple and include several items to place in your car, but they could save your or a family members life.
For Indiana road conditions between December 1st and March 31st, call 800-261-7623 or visit the state police website at www.in.gov/isp.
