My dad made sure when we were out we had our container for winter and summer. That basket saved some people when we were stuck in traffic for over 3 hours. I popped my trunk and was drinking water when people around me were asking if I had more I said come get what you need. They were trying to pay me I said no but you can pay it forward. One lady said her mom needs sugar I had the tablets for my aunt I said here give her one of these. I called my dad and said thank you. You helped a lot of people today. .
In February 2014 my son and I were traveling from Texas to Indiana and found ourselves stuck in bumper to bumper traffic on I40 in Arkansas for more than 48 hours due to an ice storm. As a prepper I had planned ahead by packing enough food and water for about a week, a full tank of gas and plenty of blankets we also had. The one thing we didn't bring was my small Instant pop-up tent and a 5 gallon bucket to use as a bathroom. There was a 15 passenger van in front of us that had a girl's volleyball team in it. I loaned them a plastic tarp that they held up when one of them had to use the bathroom. An estimated 40,000 people were stranded on I55 and I40, some were there for 4 days. A big thank you to the Arkansas State Police and the National Guard for bringing food and water to those that didn't have anything.
It might sound silly but I strongly suggest everyone spend a night in their car in their driveway. A) It is a great equipment check and B) more importantly it will help you gain some confidence that you can handle it because you have done it before. Stress is a product of self doubt and stress kills.
William Prince Right now I'm still saving up for my first car and when I do get it the first thing I'm doing is spending the night in it. Partly because it would be cool to in 40 years talk about how I spent the night in my first car the first night I had it. The main reason however is that I feel it's a great way to become familiar with your vehicle and, like you stated, it lessons the stress of having to do it in an emergency situation.
I DID this! It was when the weather was better, though. But I got a handle on sleeping in the car -- its a small SUV, back seat is Always down for Roger (the dog), so there's a big open space, and the dog-bed pad is actually fairly luxurious, compared to sleeping on the ground camping. It went fairly well, gave me confidence. (Not sure how well it will go when I am joined by Roger -- he hears things and barks when in unusual circumstances...... That's my next experiment...we'll see...)
William Prince did that last night. I do it every year. Great way to practice. Shake down cruise in your driveway is a safe and excellent way to learn without risk.
I'm a paraplegic and use a wheelchair to get around and I have a survival pack that I carry in my car at all times. This came about after a friend of mine, whose brother (also a paraplegic) had an accident in NY State a couple years ago where he went off an icy road down a ravine and was unable to get out of his vehicle and was unable to be seen by rescuers. He had an emergency survival pack in his car with all the essentials mentioned in this video and he was able to survive out of what was in his pack until on day 4 one of the rescuers just about went off the road at the same spot he had went off the road. The rescuer caught a glimpse of the back of his vehicle and called 911. They were able to get him out, none the worst for wear.
also have a 25ft or longer rope .tie one end around your waist. tie the other end around your steering wheel. this way when you go outside your vehicle to clean ice away from your exhaust system. or if you go to the bathroom. you can feel the rope to find your way back into your vehicle. to many people have died from being snow blinded and couldn't find there way back into your vehicle. they have found people 10ft away or closer to there vehicle dead .because they didn't have a rope around there waist and the other end of the rope around the steering wheel .
Very good idea. You could also use a compass and check which direction you're heading when you leave the car, although you might forget when you're under stress.
Signal Mirror - great idea. I have added reflective stickers to either the back of the mirror or to the mirror case. If the rescuers are shining a light in your direction, it's easier to let reflective tape signal back than to align a mirror to reflect back to them.
Years ago I got stuck in the 80 west going towards my house at Tobyhanna, PA. I highly recommend to have your car full tank of gas. I kept my car running all night. Personally, once my gas tank gets to 1/2, I filled the tank to full... great video
In winter when my vehicle gets to 3/4 I try to refill ASAP. Helps a few ways: Weight assists traction. Helps keep down condensation in fuel tank and gas line. IF you get stuck or break down but engine still runs you have heat and electricity.
I keep those cups meals, spam and a case of bottled water in my truck, as well as electric blankets and other covering to both cover the windows to keep the cold from entering the vehicle. The electric blankets is for us humans. Plastic would work to to cut down air flow. I also do this in my home,, mist the windows and place see thru clear plastic over the window to cut down air flow. It stick because of the water and dries till spring.
One can find a 120 hour candle for vehicle use. 1 or 2 will keep a vehicle above freezing. Keep your windows slightly cracked. You and yours will use up the oxygen. I have traveled with a kit including sleeping bag and blankets for 40+ years...did make a difference a time or two. Regarding that water bottle tuck it under your coat to keep it from freezing. One wants to keep hydrated in cold weather. Best
Been there done this working in northern Colorado...getting off after work in a night time blizzard with blinding snow... employer required that we temp employees leave the premises....snow was so high you couldn’t see the mile marker reflector signs....stores closed....vehicles stranded or wrecked that blocked roads....first responders couldn’t get there. MREs, sleeping bags, coats/gloves, survival candle, water, shovel, kitty litter, flares, common sense, & a sense of humor. Also very important, stay with your vehicle, & if you have to stay inside then keep your seat buckles fastened because of protection from sliding cars impacting your stranded vehicle & because your vehicle is first place first responders will look for you. Also keep car running if possible & tailpipe clear of snow. Keep in mind that hazard lights will run your battery down quickly. Safe travels everybody :)
I remember in 2015 when I was on my way back to Arkansas from Michigan in my Ford Explorer when I had an accident on I-55 in Missouri and ended up on the side of the road in an icy condition. I was fortunate that my SUV didn't roll over, but instead slid off the roadway without hitting anyone else. I had enough clothes and other items to get by for awhile, and also fortunate that others was there to assist me. I managed to get back on the road with the assistance of a wrecker, and state trooper, and made it home safely after that. I learned a lesson in that situation and have never decided to drive anywhere after that without making sure I was prepared for conditions.
Another great vid! As a Maine resident, I can vouch for the importance of pulling together an extreme weather survival kit. Extra hats, gloves and socks just might be the most important. But also make sure you're wearing appropriate footwear and outerwear to begin with (thx for the eye candy @3:50 to illustrate this ;) ). I know Sootch prefaced this vid by saying there's a lot more beyond the scope of these survival items, but I'll just mention that its always preferable to avoid getting stranded in the first place. In addition to keeping your vehicle in top condition with good tires, make sure you have an ice scraper, a folding snow shovel and some kind of traction aid. A lot of winter accidents are caused by icy windshields that prevented the driver from seeing/maneuvering around the danger until it was too late. And I know from experience that if you have a shovel and traction aids, self rescue is very doable in a lot of situations. Finally: +1 on having this gear on hand even if you don't end up needing it, b/c you might encounter a less fortunate motorist who does.
TiMeJ34nD1T I bought a $10 locking gas cap precisely for that reason when I was living in an apartment and fuel was over $4 per gallon for the cheap stuff
Thank you Rick, for this advice. I admit I mostly wait until my tank gets to near empty before I refill it to full. It's just that there are so many gasoline stations around me that I don't have to go far for fuel. Now, I've changed my thoughts about this. Thank you.
If I may add my 2 Cents in this: ~ I always carry w/my fleece watch cap & gloves a scarf to cover the neck and/or a "Hoodie" sweatshirt to add under my winter jacket to completely cover the head area. Also, extra socks are very good, but add in a small bottle of foot powder to sprinkle on the feet when changing socks; you wouldn't believe how that can warm up and dry out your feet. ~ I always have in the trunk of my car a small hatchet or machete for chopping wood and whatnot. Add several lengths of rope if your car slides off the road and down an embankment you can use that to help others climb up to the road, also para-cord to help tie-up or tie0down stuff, whatever the case may be. ~ Keep a #10 size coffee can w/lid in the trunk that holds water-proof matches and either Sterno can stoves or a couple of "Penny Can Stoves" (something you can look up here on UA-cam) and a bottle of HEAT from the auto parts store as fuel to either cook, melt snow for water or just to keep warm. ~ Also, if you travel with pets, like your family dog, don't forget to pack in the trunk a dog blanket to keep him/her warm and off the cold ground, PLUS a couple days worth of dog food and a pair of bowls for water and the food; they get hungry too!!
I like to have a 5 gallon bucket of wood shavings from the shop instead of kitty litter, it is much lighter, does the same thing for traction and it's a great bunch of tinder.
As a Canadian there are a couple other things I keep in the car including a jumper cables, shovel, folding steel tire traction aid, candles, and a cup to melt snow in. Most important is having real winter tires (not all season) which is a legal requirement here in Quebec. It will prevent you from being in the ditch in the first place and for me rates only second to a cell phone in terms of car safety.
Thats Interesting. Do most people keep a set of both and change their tires for winter or just wear out the winter tires in summer and not bother changing?
@@V.Hansen. These days most people in Calgary have a set of all seasons for the summer - we never know when it might hit. I've seen it in every month of the year. They switch to winter tires in September. Many tire places have storage facilities and, for a small fee, will store your tires until spring comes again.
@@V.Hansen. in alaska using studded tires in the summer cost you $2 a stud if your caught..we all have 2 sets of tires. +- if you dont have both sets on wheels its wait hours at tire shops and walmarts to get them changed $70/$80
Yup absolutely. Here in Nova Scotia we have to have a good set of winter tires the season. Jumper cables too. Hand pump, bag of salt too along with a shovel and rope
I wear daily contacts so I keep an older pair of glasses in all of my vehicles. If you don't have a pair take your prescription to a place like Walmart or Costco and get a cheap pair for your car. Also, if you are going to be in an area with snow make sure you have sunglasses. My glasses automatically tent. You do not want to loose vision in an emergency situation or even have sore eyes.
I have always carried a spare in my car since being in sports my contacts came out of one eye once. my car is almost always with me, so the spare pair is always nearby.
I live in mid Minnesota. it's not so much the snow, although it can be pretty bad, but the cold. I have a giant bag with a parka, insulated overalls, mits, boots good for -20 plus the usual gear. a small scoop shovel is a good idea. a good fwd truck is a really good idea.
I once spent the night in my car out in the backcountry, my little pup tent was no protection from the cold, so I lay on the drivers seat with it reclined all the way back, flannel and heavy jacket and even a beach towel for a blanket, and put an extra T shirt over my mouth, which filtered out the cold air inside the car and my breath exhaling kept my face warm.....this was a lifesaver, there is no way I could have slept breathing that cold air all night....so always have extra T shirts or bandanas or similar fabric handy, it can save your life....
I was in the storm in Georgia in Jan 2014, it took 10 hours to drive roughly 20 miles. The key thing that helped me, I fueled up the day before because they said it was going to snow. I was worried about power outages. Since then I added a rather large winter kit to my vehicle. I have a small tent, sleeping, extra clothes, waterproof hiking boots, gloves, hat, water, dehydrated food, a canteen cup, instant coffee, three different ways of making fire and boiling water. Those are the main things, there is a bunch more that I wont list.
I always drive safe. If it's clear dry roads just 20 mph over the speed limit. Rain the speed limit. Snow 10 mph under speed limit and ice 15 mph under, black ice 20 mph under. No, seriously I think everyone should think if it's bad conditions you got to be able to stop and look at accidents on yotube. People driving on the road clear where the tires are clear and they go the speed limit. If it's icy but clear where the tires are half the speed limit. If it's snowy like packed snow 15 mph and if it's sheer ice 5 mph. But if it's sheer ice WTF ar you doing driving for a loaf of bread? But nobody will do it so stay home if it's bad and that' a bitch in Russia because you would be home six months.
I seen a kit a while ago that added a Nalgene bottle with 2 decks of cards and dice with a few pencils and sharpener. Keeps the kids and minds active. It can be utilized in many applications. Even storing extra rounds in the bottom of the bottle. Many bottles made up this way for different applications. Much more useful than zip lock bags.
From Canada: only accelerate and decelerate in a straight line. Do not brake or accelerate into a turn. If you drive stick, make it a habit of turning only in second gear on snow. Wear a silk or microfibre shirt and a woolen sweater on top (British army woolly jumpers are the best) and something to break the wind. You will likely slip and fall so plan for it: wear gloves that will protect the hand and walk with your knees slightly bent with a slight forwards bias so that you fall forwards, not backwards (use your arms and hands to break the fall). Don't walk over ice, glide over it (push off with the foot that has your body weight over it, release weight off the other foot but do no raise it, letting it slide over the ice. Transfer weight to the forward foot and repeat) Snowshoes are light, and very useful in deep snow. Balaclavas and snow goggles are essential. If it is -20 and windy, your eyeballs will freeze and the rest of your face will be frostbitten.
A collaspable snow shovel would be a good addition. Some of the self heating drinks if still available in your area . If not then the ability to make a hot drink, tea, coffee, chocolate can really improve moral and chase a chill away.
I live in the Northeast so snow is a way of life for us. Great kit but a few additions would be kitty litter or ice melt, a small snow shovel made from some type of metal, maybe some old car mats that can be placed around the tires for traction, tow cables, and a jump pack. Also, drive slowly on the snow, be careful of ice under the snow and black ice too. I would also add sunglasses for snow glare during cold bright sunny days. Always leave plenty room between you and the next vehicle at lights, on the highway, curves, and coming into any intersections. Carry extra windshield deicer/cleaner because you will need to clean salt and sand off the windshield just riding around.
Ya...what he said Also, the best advice would be to go out to your vehicle now and make a list of what you have...go ahead we'll wait. Now make list of what you need, gather it all together, put it in your vehicle. See...that was easy, don't you feel better.
When we had a van and room to stow it, we had a milk crate with all the makings for emergencies. With a smaller vehicle, and space at a premium, we set up seasonal box with justins (Just in case) for each season. Now that it is mid-October, extra blankets get added. This came in handy one year when the heater in the van went and we had a 4 hour trip back home. Thank you for sharing a part of your day with us!
i have been thinking about this for a while and i decided that a insulated overall is the best piece of clothing to carry - a good fire kit - a good emergency blanket - a wool blanket - 500 ml jar of honey and 500 ml of peanut butter - a spoon - a full ten c's kit - two pair of cold weather socks - sawyer water filter - your right abut the pry bar- good pair of boots - compass and a weatherized map - a Israeli combat bandage
Last weekend, here in Northern California an older couple got stranded in the snow on Friday night and were rescued Sunday afternoon. Being prepared with sleeping bags and some food and water saved their lives.
Great kit set up Sootch. As someone who lives with snow on the ground for several months a year, a shovel and booster cables are must haves in a winter car kit as well. A tow rope is a good idea too. Thanks for another great video!
Thought I would add this link also. www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Dont-leave-your-car---Professor-Popsicle-288932651.html?cx_navSource=d-tiles-1 As pointed out in this video, your vehicle is a great shelter, so stay with it!
I really don't understand why anyone would thumbs down a preparedness video.maybe they hate life idk.I don't get it.another great video thanks brother.
I live in North Dakota, and I am an active member of the National Ski Patrol. For the most part I liked your video, two crucial things that I noticed were missing: a shovel, and kitty litter. You need to be able to shovel your way out of a snow bank or a snowy ditch, and kitty litter, which is great for helping to regain traction in the snow after you dig yourself out. Any of those tools that he mentioned can also be useful for chipping away at ice by tires (I commonly use ski poles for this).
Another great video. One tip for water storage in your vehicle during even sub zero weather. Place your water bottle INSIDE a touque/ winter wool pullover hat. Water wont freeze.
Videos like this never get old! We just had a snow storm this week and people were stranded on I-95 for between 8 and 19 hours. They all could have used this information. But preppers are crazy, right? I'm always ready!
Saw some of this in 1990s Illinois highway snow storm and blizzard, people skittering off highways down hills, black ice, 18 wheelers, and 4 wheelers all askew. Saw people in Wyoming all over the road. Was in the 1990s locked down Oregon Columbia Gorge snow blizzard (15-19 feet of highway snow !), shut down Portland. Saw the most stupid of Houston traffic with first frost and snow, and people driving 70 mph and bouncing cars all over the road with wet ice. Always good to be prepared, ... and not go out in STUPID WESTHER IN THE FIRST PLACE (Darwin's Award). Had a couple in Nor CA, got off highway and stuck in off road snow. Man got out, leaving wife and children to go get help. Later car found and people rescued. Husband found frozen to death (near naked). NEVER LEAVE THE MAIN ROAD, ... and NEVER GET OUT OF THE CAR. Put up flashers, orange flags (red/orange tube tents), and line windows inside with space blankets. Blankets and QUILTS, even monkey suits for each person in the car. Hand/foot warmers (lighter fluid model or chemical packets) for 3 days time period per person. Water in soda pop bottles (inside car, not trunk) and food/snacks in the car/trunk for eah person for 3 days of meals. 2-3 pairs of extra HD wool socks, or double layer hunting/hiking socks for the feet. Good LED (and blinking red) battery flashlights, or hand-crack radio w/ LED flashlight.
Sootch, it's early Fall 2018 but I'm already coming back to this for a review. Farmer's Almanac says this Winter is going to be a beast, and as an OTR truck driver I always want to be ready for a weather based SHTF situation. The tractor is my home away from home and I'll stay with it as long as I can, but I also believe in being prepared if I have to evacuate. Food, water, medical, shelter, fire, etc, would all come into play in an evacuation, and for motor vehicle operators that's a given from the beginning of a SHTF. Thanks for having this video up.
Baby wipes even if they dry out can be remoisten because the cleaner is till in the wipe, I have two pacs in each of my 3 bug-out bags, staying clean smell better and keeps you from being found if you stink by bad people!
How to stay warm, dry, and hydrated should be the things you think of when determining what you will need. A "survival situation" occurs when something happens and you are not prepared for it. Telling two different people when and where you are going and the route is so important. If the route changes, let those people know ASAP. Great video and ideas. Thanks.
Great tips/ideas! Not sure if it has been mentioned, but you can download "offline" maps to your phone (Google maps). Doing so will allow you view the map and location even without an internet connection. Its dependent on the GPS antenna. What I do is download a specific area where I am travelling to just in case there is no service. And it has helped especially when we are in a remote area with no cell service and I am not familiar with the roads. *Note: depending on the size of the area being downloaded, it will take up a certain amount of memory from your phone.
old timers used to carry a gallon can with a roll of tp in it soaked in lamp oil or diesel for a survival stove and dry fruit & jerky in some kind of mouse proof container that could be used on the stove
When driving in the winter, remember that it's more important on how fast you can stop as opposed to how fast you can get going. I find it important to find a place you can practice skidding and find out how your car reacts in slippery conditions. One other thing, a small accident can turn into a big one by over-correcting, over-braking, over-steering. If you find yourself in the grass, stay in the grass. Over-steering or braking can cause a car to roll-over.
It is astounding how may people who live in that type of weather are not ready. Based on my own life's experience I've had a winter kit since I was in high school. I am now 36, you channel has helped me better prepare thanks bud.
Some good essentials there, another thing that would be a good idea to add would be a cooking pot to melt down some snow for water, you can put it on a fire or the engine block if the vehicle is still usable.
0:33 I was stuck in that jam a couple years ago and remember watching that car go up in smoke from under the 540 overpass. A ton of people abandoned their cars and were walking in their office clothes. My usual 20-30 commute home took 5 hours, mainly because folks in NC lose their minds when it snows. I was not prepared at all for that afternoon and ever since then, I keep enough in my Jeep to get by in another situation like that and to potentially hike home. This channel has provided a ton of good info and has given me a lot of ideas for my car kit.
First aid kit was missing. If you take medicine, always take a few days worth with you. A toothbrush and floss is important too. Floss can be used for a snare too. If you have a pet along, take food and what your pet needs too. I think that even a sled could be handy, and a snow shovel. Definitely a snow shovel. I'm glad that you mentioned a map. I couldn't find a map anywhere in our area when we moved here. I had to go into the next county's AAA to get local and state maps. The gas stations here don't sell or carry them anymore. They are becoming harder to find. Another thing to carry is a whistle. Whistles sound carries when your voice does not.
my main focus right now is to get 3 week pantry(which includes water), and back up heating and lighting system. for my home and as this video is about car kit!!! great topic and tips!!!
I need a bigger trunk. Also add a first aid kit and I use road flares, available at walk mart or any parts store. Great for fire starting and signaling.
Thank you sir we live in New York City but I’ve seen first hand stranded people from snow storm. N I’ve been wanting to put together a emergency bag for my girl friends car. I pretty much could take care of my self since my edc bag is also get home bag. But with your video I can show her it’s important to be ready. Thx again sir. 👍
Storing the water upside down so if it freeze from the bottom to top, is good tip. Having a tea light(s) candle heater can help also keep the chill down. Use the vehicle heater sparely as needed and keep a window cracked to avoid CO/CO2 build up inside. Standard cat litter/sand with cables and shovel too C.R.
Great video Don.Just a few notes:First, water expands by roughly 10% when frozen. I usually remove a little more than 10% of the water from any container, that way you maximize the amount of water you can carry. I'd also keep some type of metal container to be able to melt the snow/ice if your water source freezes.Second, if you are keeping all of this in your car, grab some sort of container to keep it all in. I donno about you, but my trunk can get messy. If everything is stored in a nice Rubbermaid/Starilite container, it's easy to find/grab(especially the smaller things). Last thing you want to do is to go through your trunk in a blistering storm to find that lighter or ferro rod.I also like to keep some large hand warmers in my car as well. They take up almost no room, last for years and provide a nice source of heat to help keep you moving.Keep up the great work.
I totally understand keeping prepared. I live in South Florida. In January, we've had nights where it got down to 36°. Scary !! That's why I always keep a windbreaker jacket in my trunk.
Empty bladders inside box wines: pull the spigot plug from the bladder, rinse out, fill with fresh water. Replace the spigot plug and, with spigot open, press the air bubble out. This is five liters of fresh water, lies flat, stores under seats. I keep several of these in the garage for power-outs: we're on an electric well pump. Use to flush toilet, etc. It's fresh water with a spigot! Also, tea candles or emergency candles in something like an empty cat food can will help warm the vehicle. Crack a window.
Fantastic video! Just put my winter kit in the car last week along with my everyday kit that's always with me. Between the 2 I can make it 96 hours easily. I drive 100 miles everyday for work to me this is a must have.
Don, another good idea would be a small pot or something that u could use to melt the ice that your water supply could potentially be. they sell a heating element that u plug in a cigarette lighter that u can place in a coffee cup to warm your drink up with you can normally find them in truck stops that work great as well for melting ice. another idea would be an ice pick. just things I used to keep as a long haul truck driver who always prepared for any kind of weather conditions.
Nice tips. In addition to most of the stuff you listed, I also keep a big synthetic sleeping bag, 4 seasons rated sleeping pad, & a 1 person tent in case my car can't be slept in; the sleeping bag & pad are great for sleeping in your car as well even with no heat source. Also pack an MSR dragon fly stove & a big bottle of fuel, with a pot to boil snow instead of packing water, because I've found it's quicker to melt snow than melt a big chunk of ice. Also a few dehydrated meals because it's better long term energy than quick sugar bars & it keeps morale up. After having been stranded overnight twice, I basically pack an old mil surplus pack with most of the essential items I use when winter camping in Michigan (such as toilet paper). One other major tip is to keep your gas tank full & make sure your car's battery is healthy; overnight is easily done without being fully prepared if you have the gas to keep you warm & a good car battery that will allow you to start your car for small periods at a time where the battery will become drained fairly quickly due to not really being charged when only idling with heated seats on
I was driving home from vacation from Florida to Ohio and went throw Atlanta at 8pm on the night of the ice storm that was the most crazy thing I have seen if you would think of a apocalypse that would be it my wife counted 178 cars on the side of the road or ditch driving through town... unfortunately we couldn't find a hotel and sleeping in our car wasn't a option and crappy thing we was in our Dodge Charger that was rear wheel drive:( but being from Ohio and dealing with that yearly we just went slow and kept going and made it through it we was one of the few cars I seen driving... when we was on 75 we would go under a bridge that would have a slight tilt to the road and we would hit the ice and slide down the tilt till we hit dry road. We ended up driving all the way to Chattanooga before we found a room to stay in.. wish I had this kit then for sure ! Good idea and now have these in all my vehicles
I was in Atlanta that day as well. The snow was a joke. People there are just afraid and also don't know how to drive in it. In Grand Rapids, no one would bat an eye at that Atlanta snow. I lived in the mountains of Virginia at the time I got my license. Got it in November with snow on the roads. Had to make a right turn out of the DMV and up the steep snowy hill right off the bat when I took my driving test. Got my license, and the FIRST chance I got the next time we got a good snow, I drove my grandmother's Ford Fairmont station wagon to the park where I proceeded to speed through the parking lot then crank the wheel hard over into a spin, and learn to corrective steer. 16 years old, and KNEW that one day I would drive in snow, and so taught myself how to do it. That's something people lack. The realization that they need to take it upon themselves to know how to drive in the snow, and learn to do it. I dident drive through the city that day. I drove the back roads. In a rental car. On the west side. I went from Villa Rica through Dallas, through Cartersville, to I-75 and on up to Chattanooga where I was living at the time. When I came back down 2 days later, cars were STILL stranded. Some stayed stuck in the road for up to a week. It was rediculous...
@@tabithamartin4092 I live in Atlanta area, in 2014 the biggest problems were the state had 2 trucks for snow and every city, county, state, and federal office plus privately owned business all let their employees leave at noon. All of the schools also let out at around noon. That was the beginning of the end, lanes on the overpasses were blocked by semi trucks getting stuck on ice, all of the idling cars melted the snow which froze when the sun went down. The snow was not the problem, the ice coated roads is a huge problem anywhere. I had my Wrangler I was good, only slipped once when I got pissed about how people were driving and put to much throttle. Since then we had 10 inches overnight and no problems because the government has since bought about 30 snow plows for the metro area and trucks to pre-coat the surface with brine. But I have also seen 145 car pileups from states that get a lot of snow because people are too comfortable driving in the snow and forget the vehicles cant stop from 60 as fast and they plow into the cars wrecked in front of them. Just last year jan 2018 Cedar Rapids had a over 70 vehicle pileup that killed at least one, but they know how to drive in the snow right. As far as I can recall, nobody died in Atlanta in 2014.
@@paladin11C40 excuses... You just gave nothing but excuses. As I mentioned earlier, "I" was in a rental car that day. You know, a random shitty little car that I was driving for the first time. One with OUT snow tires or 4wheel drive, or chains, or even an ice scraper... . Ice? I have driven a bigrig, on black ice through Montana,. Driven one on icy roads in Wyoming in 50+ mph winds with an empty trailer, maneuvered one through an accident in progress on icy roads in Lansing Michigan. I have crossed Donner Pass under the chain law, with OUT chains (they made them required right AFTER I passed the inspection booth). I have driven through several blizzards, ice, hail, sleet, rain, in several States, in every kind of wheeled vehicle. I have even rode motorcycle in snow (which sucks in EVERY way btw...). It's not about the weather. It's about personal responsibility. TEACH yourself to drive in adverse conditions. Have an EDC, BOB, get home bag, and emergency kit for your car. Keep all season or snow tires on your car and say screw the bad fuel mileage. And frakkin actually pay attention to the weather, be prepared, and have a plan AND at least 1 back up plan, already thought through before you ever walk out your door.
@@tabithamartin4092 No, I gave facts about the equipment the state had at the time. I gave facts about how the whole mess started, which was about 300,000 vehicles hitting the road at the same time. I would expect a professional driver, like yourself, to be able to drive in these conditions. You say TEACH yourself, you want 10 million people to travel to the northern states in the winter to teach themselves to drive in a condition they MAY face once every 5-10 years? You want the same people to purchase snow tires for an event that might happen once every 5-10 years? It snowed once in Miami decades ago, should they also take responsibility and teach themselves to drive in the snow and buy snow tires? That is ridiculous. By the way, people were paying attention to the weather, the weather report that day was possible wintry mix. It was expected to be a none event, I was in the city before and after because I live here, you were traveling through and may not know the facts about what was going to happen. You probably didnt hear that the state got hammered because of how this was handled and purchased a massive amount of equipment to make sure this would not happen again, which it has not. I can drive in the snow, I have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, and I do keep things in my vehicle for certain events, and I did not get stuck. You are the greatest driver of all time, nobody else can drive any vehicle like you. Does that stroke your ego enough? It sounds like you have a lot of reasons to have snow tires, chains, plans, and all the other things because you are from those areas. You seem angry that not everybody is like you. When I was younger it snowed a little in LA county, I can guarantee you none of those 16 million people in that county would be ready for a snow event in LA either.
We live in Buffalo and snowstorms are a fact of life in the winter. The first line of defense is to know how to drive in ice and snow and anticipate problems. There are lots of good ideas here. In a pack that we keep in the back of the SUV we keep snacks and water, knowing that they may be frozen. We always keep one steel bottle. I'm going to add more clothing. Wood for a fire may be difficult to get so we have a small Etsee stove with several fuel tabs, being always aware of ventilation. You mentioned it and we keep a couple of good old wool army blankets along with some emergency mylar blankets. We have a couple tarps in case of real emergencies and also a whole bin of various bungie cords and cording to help set them up. Really enjoyed the video and got a lot out of it!
Would be good to keep a small ax in addition to the saw and Mora. Great for many uses in a vehicle+survival situation, such as: breaking out a window, cutting the seatbelt; quickly processing tinder, etc.
a very good kit, i Always keep a heavy workers jacket in my car, the ones that are yellow or orange and reflective material on, so emergency crew easily see you, and it keeps you very warm greetings from Sweden
If your intestinal “main survival brain” has many doubts you should follow your gut instinct. Stay home or safe whatever your situation. People go out hunting, snow blows thick, what ever circumstance you must think, think ahead, think behind and all about sinerios that are possible, before trouble. Fire, shelter, food and water and you could stay all winter. I carry about 65 pounds in the trunk always and I have the proverbial “bug out” five pound bag in my room at home. You can’t over prepare but you sure can under prepare. This is a wonderful video.
I would suggest a ham radio and a repeater directory. You do not have to have a license in an emergency situation to use it. Also there is an app that has all the questions and its a fairly easy test. I studied while in the bathroom for about 2 weeks and nearly aced the thing. You can get a Baofeng off Amazon for less than $30 and a repeater directory for $10 for $40 I would consider this a great option.
Great video Sootch, these skills need to be taught in schools. Your suggestions are all valid especially for a freak type winter storm where it is an unusual occurrence in an otherwise mild winter climate. But if you are meaning a real winter kit then you need more items. All of the following items can be stored in your trunk: for actual winter climes the wool blanket is a must (1/person is best); no water nor canned food should be stored in trunk nor outside the cab area as it will be compromised (freeze over the first night then burst and thaw over your stuff) if not freeze immediately; a telescoping shovel with a wide face to scoop out a snowbank or a high-centering situation or to clear a path in the snow; freeze dried foods can be stored in the trunk with other gear; a tow strap. Bring with you each trip: a first aid kit and a small propane stove with fuel in your daypack in the cab with you along with a container for food and water; 10 essentials kit. There is nothing wrong with self-rescue either if you are prepared (knowledge and practiced skills) for it and the situation warrants it.
my normal commute is 1 hour. two years ago we had a big snow, temps below 20 degrees and they let us go early. the whole state was let go, and on the road. it took me 5 hours to get home. almost ran out of gas in my Expedition. Have kept a BOB in the truck ever since. looking to refresh it this weekend and remind myself what I have in there :)
same thing with me, it is 30 miles to work; we had snow, but moreover ( as some may not know ) it is the ICE under the snow that causes the traffic to start sliding, wrecking and backing up. Interstates were like parking lots and took me five hours to get home too. I DID learn to keep an empty screw top bottle in the car to relieve myself... that third coffee before I left work HAD to go somewhere and I was not gonna stand out on the road and whip it out. Because, you know, uh, shrinkage.
I spent more winters than I liked working up in Northern Alberta in the Oil Fields. One thing I learned, and I still keep a pair of them in my emergency kit in my truck are some heavy duty, extreme cold rated HH long johns. If I got stuck, those would be the first things I'd throw on before I lost my heat from the vehicle. They are expensive, but nothing compares to them for keeping your core warm. Plus they wick away any sweat, and I got the 1 piece that leaves no holes for heat to escape. I've been stuck in the cold a few times. And they saved my butt, as well as a lil propane heater I got under my seat. Just don't have the small bottles hooked up while driving,lol. As well as I got a trappers hat, and some serious Arctic mittens In my bag I keep behind the crew cab seat with flares, and first aid, knife fire kit. Driving out on grid roads in -30/40c you just can't take chances.
That thumbnail happened 4 miles from my house. :) The light snow we got that day melted under the tires of cars but then froze to a quarter inch of ice. Didn't matter what you were driving- if you couldn't get your tires in fresh snow, you weren't getting anywhere.
Richard Casey I live in Phoenix, Arizona. Do you know what we call that picture? What the hell is all that white stuff on the ground. I think I'll go jump in the pool again. It's currently 66 Degrees in my backyard. Sunday, Dec. 11, we're looking for a high of 72 Degrees. However, I have a fully stocked survival kit in my Jeep. Plus an area specific kit if we do go up north were it does get cold sometime. Rather then a Tea Candle I have two seventy two hour candles in cans along with spare wicks. They burn slowly with very little smoke. Once candle set in a car with several windows cracked will keep the inside air well above the outside temp. As I am writing this the talking heads on TV broke in with some sad news. John Glenn has died at the age of 95. This may not mean much to you younger generation, but I remember when the Freedom 7 took off and orbited the earth. RIP John.
His Jeep had flipped when it slid off the road. He took his spare tire off back of Jeep and moved it inside. He built a fire outside and heated multiple rocks he found. He would take the heated rocks and alternate them onto steel whell of spare. It was a great idea and it worked.
@@CAWillie In and out the jeep...open door each time...heat escapes. If he'd used the coffee can and toilet paper he wouldn't have had to do that. Bad idea. It's called being prepared in snow country.
Great video. I live in the North of Ireland. We don't often get snow, usually a couple of days per year but every so often we get a bad snowfall, roads blocked etc. We are not set up to deal with a lot of snow. I have been out this morning checking the tyres both on my car and my wife's with a view to fit snow tyres in the next week or so. We have similar kits in both cars.
As someone who lives in the frigid part of the Midwest, you hit the nail on the head for how we survive in the winter. The car kit is a must have for every winter. We also 52nd to keep a bag of cheap kitty litter in the trunk in case it is needed to make good traction on the ground in icy situations. Thanks!
When you are inside a mylar blanket you can turn on a surefire type flash light keeping the flashlight inside of the blanket It will get pretty hot inside there.
Especially in a car, keep a quart paint can with a toilet paper roll with the cardboard removed from the center, in the quart can. With this, keep an unopened 90% rubbing alcohol bottle and matches/lighter taped to can. If needed, you remove top of can and spray/pour rubbing alcohol onto toilet paper. ( not all) light it. You now can cook and have a heater that only puts off moisture. No risk of carbon monoxide poising.
Great info and well presented. In the video, hand warmers and freezing water were mentioned. Not only can hand warmers be used to keep your hands from freezing but if you do get stuck in freezing weather for an extended period a hand warmer can be used to stop your water supply from freezing. Wrap your water in a mylar blanket with a hand warmer and it will stay liquid. Rope or paracord, mechanics wire, and duct tape have a variety of uses as well. I was stranded in the middle of nowhere in north Idaho one winter and I broke a fan belt, with those three items I was able to make a belt that lasted 90 miles at ten mph. I now carry a spare belt and always some basic tools. Life is tough and it's tougher if you're stupid. Keep your head straight and don't panic. God bless America.
I live in Maine, any time I drive in storms or slick conditions I bundle up with all my cold weather clothes. Then I turn my car heater way down so I don't sweat. This way if I slide off the road or have an accident....I'm am prepared for the cold weather. If you don't have your gloves, hat and scarf on...but some where in the car...how will you get to them if you are pinned or unable to move?!?! That goes for your cell phone...driving during a storm I put it in a neck pouch and tuck it down in my shirt. This way I can access it with either hand. Also keep the biggest shovel in your car as possible on snow storm days. I also buy a 35 lb bag of popcorn at Costco or Sam'sClub, divvy it up in to smaller bags, it makes EXCELLENT material to gain traction for your wheels!!!! Far better than kitty litter!
Keep your kit and your boots and parka inside the vehicle with you. If it is in the trunk you might not be able to get to them. Learned the hard way myself. Also don't get careless. I made that mistake one time and nearly froze to death in a large city. Always have your kit in your car. Always! Thanks for the video. Very good points made.
UCO candle lanterns are nice because if accidentally tipped over they're less likely to start a fire. I cannot remember the YT channel I saw this on but someone used this small lantern, equipped with a 9 hour candle, and Mylar blanket to stay warm. He actually stated it got too hot. So I keep this in my bug out bag. I also keep a Luci light in addition to flashlights and never leave home without my Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus solar powered charger.
I know I'm late coming up with ideas, but I think something people get complacent about is listening to the forecast! If the weatherman says there is an ice storm or a big snow storm headed your way - listen and stay home! I know they don't always get it right but I bet those people on the highway in Atlanta wished they'd stayed home or waited at work to see the weather get better. Good advice and great video. PS - I save the cotton balls I use to soak up the old scented wax from my Scenstsy warmer for starting fires - works great, smells good doing it!
All this make sense! Thank you very much. Just one thing, I spent 15 years in french FS, and when we were expecting a very cold weather mission, we put a little bit of salt in our water. Be careful, a very little bit is enough and can avoid very efficently to freeze in your backpack
good ideas but I still miss several items. For the car I add in winter always at least a little sack of small stones or kitty litter or such, what may help if you need to go out from somewhere. Sometimes it is just a question of covering some feet of ice to escape. And a gallon or two of spare gas can also help a lot - in a common winterly traffic jam many people run out of gas, and even if you find after some while a petrol pump you can bet people are queuing there for hours. For the passengers I would add to the list some simple but warm blankets - most versatile items ever, you can use them to cover you, to make a parka, to sleep in it and so on. And at least one stainless steel or aluminium water bottle is a must. If you have to stay longer and you are able to melt snow and get extra drinking water, or to make a nicely warming bed bottle, you are king. (Of course that bottle must be transported empty, if it is filled and freezes it would burst.) And I would highly recommend to keep always a little stove like a M71 or an Esbit Stove or such ready. At least in the first time it is a great help - if you are in a blizzard you won't be able to go around and collect fire wood. If you sit somewhere in the snow but can prepare a noodle soup or something like that, all evil will be over. ;-)
This is an excellent video with a great deal of good information. I live in Canada where winters can be brutal, and deadly in a bad situation. I have been thinking about doing a video like this for my channel but it looks like you beat me to it. Also I like the blooper reels at the end. Having done a number of videos myself I know how it is. Thanks again.
A "come-a-long" generally refers to a cable hoist with a 1/2 ton to 1 ton rating. Chain hoists have a higher weight rating but are heavier and bulky. A hoist might be enough pulling power to get a vehicle unstuck or lift something or turn something over.
Since staying dry is so critical, I would add a rain jacket, or poncho, large enough to fit over a winter coat and an extra pair of gloves, since you may get the first pair wet trying to dig the car out of snow. A powerful whistle is always a good addition to an emergency kit; it may signal nearby help even when visibility is low. Also, a small snow shovel and something to put under your tires to gain traction, if you slide off the road. I used to keep a couple large pieces of heavy duty industrial metal mesh in my trunk in the winter, the kind that’s sometimes used underneath a tile floor installation (leftover from our kitchen renovation).
When I go to thrift stores I try to get my hands on HUGE jackets 3X or more I get them for very little money and they are so big that 2 people can fit inside one you zip up 2 people inside a big boys jacket their body heat will keep them both warm and you could care less about losing it. I have given these jackets away before when we went to a game and people got caught out without jackets. I don't give chicken shit christmas gifts but I do have things like that for people when I go places. When I fix a lunch I always fix too much to be able to offer somebody a bite if they like never know it might be all they get to eat that day some folks are having a time keeping food on the table. I always have too much food why? Because I buy by the best price for the weight. I try to buy stuff that will not spoil but if it will spoil SHARE. I get bananas from sam's club $150 for a bunch of them 8 pieces of fruit for that price you can't go wrong there and people will take it from you if you offer it becasue they figure you got it from the breakfast bar at the hotel. Oh always tell your party to grab an extra muffin or banana apple from that bar if you are paying for the hotel room. Eat it or give it away you have it in your control should you need it.
I am very late to this video but massive jackets are absolutely brilliant! I have small children and being able to have them bundled up right next to my wife and I in an emergency would be way better than in a blanket themselves. Also gives you options if you see a homeless person in need too.
@@MDKDAF Never had a cold person homeless, or just a kid at the ballpark who's parents didn't pay attention to the weather turn down a jacket. Style is low when survival is key.
Thanks so much for helping me to build kits for myself and my wife this holiday. The knowledge you share is so valuable! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Good sound advice. I would add a pack of cards or some kind of game compendium with pads of paper and pens/pencils. A must to keep your mind busy especially with children around :) Arguing children create a LOT of heat ;)
Madlibs i think it's called - fun game for the whole family. You, as the adult, (even among other so-called 'adults' sadly) set the tone. Make that tone positive and adventuresome.
Great info Don. That storm that shut down Atlanta got Birmingham first, and preceded my days of carrying a bag and contents prepped for such an occasion. Like so many others, I was dressed for office work, and while I had warm clothing, items like me shoes were ill-suited for ice. Hiking boots become a staple in the trunk of my car. Always good info from you, brother. Blessings!
There are a few things I would add that are cheap and take up very little space. A wire coat-hanger (or three) A roll of metal cooking foil (I worded that so most of the World knows what I mean) A British army solid fuel stove and tablets (I think this has been mentioned on the channel before) A couple of boxes of the CHEAPEST vegetable soup in a cup sachets you can find The wire coat hanger without being cut, along with the foil can be fashioned into a implement to contain and boil water over the solid fuel stove which can be used for the soup. Why vegetable soup in a cup? If you find yourself stranded there will probably be others as well and I can almost guarantee one will be a vegetarian. In reality the soup can be anything, but in itself a hot cup/bowl of soup is a big moral booster. The remainder of the foil can be laid out to give a visual signal for aerial rescue.
YOU and your videos are my lifeline .. and probably will be my lifeline to keeping myself and my 2 sons safe whenever the SHTF. I am a single mum and am trying hard as I can over here in Australia to prep. It is very hard on my own but at least I have started and am continuing with what I can. Thank you for all your tips and videos. This is probably going to sound silly but .. I don't have a dad here on this earth anymore and I look to you and your videos for the practical, knowledgeable info that you provide .. so you're sort of like my 'stand in dad' for this. So thank you again for all your sensible wisdom from me and my boys.
Mountain House or any other dehydrated/freeze dried meal requires the ability to heat water to near boiling IOT add to the pouch. Better carry a spoon also to eat it.
a few other good additions for your winter gear should be a small snow shovel, a hatchet to split firewood, reflective safety vests, and a way to waterproof important items such as your phone, firestarters, or medication. anything from zip lock baggies to unlubricated condoms will work well. also wouldn't hurt to have a folding reflective safety triangle to get people's attention. amazing video as always!
My dad made sure when we were out we had our container for winter and summer. That basket saved some people when we were stuck in traffic for over 3 hours. I popped my trunk and was drinking water when people around me were asking if I had more I said come get what you need. They were trying to pay me I said no but you can pay it forward.
One lady said her mom needs sugar I had the tablets for my aunt I said here give her one of these. I called my dad and said thank you. You helped a lot of people today. .
In February 2014 my son and I were traveling from Texas to Indiana and found ourselves stuck in bumper to bumper traffic on I40 in Arkansas for more than 48 hours due to an ice storm. As a prepper I had planned ahead by packing enough food and water for about a week, a full tank of gas and plenty of blankets we also had. The one thing we didn't bring was my small Instant pop-up tent and a 5 gallon bucket to use as a bathroom. There was a 15 passenger van in front of us that had a girl's volleyball team in it. I loaned them a plastic tarp that they held up when one of them had to use the bathroom. An estimated 40,000 people were stranded on I55 and I40, some were there for 4 days. A big thank you to the Arkansas State Police and the National Guard for bringing food and water to those that didn't have anything.
It might sound silly but I strongly suggest everyone spend a night in their car in their driveway. A) It is a great equipment check and B) more importantly it will help you gain some confidence that you can handle it because you have done it before. Stress is a product of self doubt and stress kills.
William Prince I agree with you on this, great idea for those unsure of their capabilities.
I've spent plenty of nights in my car when I was younger... if you know what I mean. ;)
William Prince Right now I'm still saving up for my first car and when I do get it the first thing I'm doing is spending the night in it. Partly because it would be cool to in 40 years talk about how I spent the night in my first car the first night I had it. The main reason however is that I feel it's a great way to become familiar with your vehicle and, like you stated, it lessons the stress of having to do it in an emergency situation.
I DID this! It was when the weather was better, though. But I got a handle on sleeping in the car -- its a small SUV, back seat is Always down for Roger (the dog), so there's a big open space, and the dog-bed pad is actually fairly luxurious, compared to sleeping on the ground camping. It went fairly well, gave me confidence. (Not sure how well it will go when I am joined by Roger -- he hears things and barks when in unusual circumstances...... That's my next experiment...we'll see...)
William Prince did that last night. I do it every year. Great way to practice. Shake down cruise in your driveway is a safe and excellent way to learn without risk.
I'm a paraplegic and use a wheelchair to get around and I have a survival pack that I carry in my car at all times. This came about after a friend of mine, whose brother (also a paraplegic) had an accident in NY State a couple years ago where he went off an icy road down a ravine and was unable to get out of his vehicle and was unable to be seen by rescuers. He had an emergency survival pack in his car with all the essentials mentioned in this video and he was able to survive out of what was in his pack until on day 4 one of the rescuers just about went off the road at the same spot he had went off the road. The rescuer caught a glimpse of the back of his vehicle and called 911. They were able to get him out, none the worst for wear.
also have a 25ft or longer rope .tie one end around your waist. tie the other end around your steering wheel. this way when you go outside your vehicle to clean ice away from your exhaust system. or if you go to the bathroom. you can feel the rope to find your way back into your vehicle. to many people have died from being snow blinded and couldn't find there way back into your vehicle. they have found people 10ft away or closer to there vehicle dead .because they didn't have a rope around there waist and the other end of the rope around the steering wheel .
Very good idea. You could also use a compass and check which direction you're heading when you leave the car, although you might forget when you're under stress.
Lance Norton excellent new point! Well done!
Mental compas
Great idea!! I’m tying a rope to my wife all the time, even in the summer, she always trying to run away for some reason..:)
@GOD OVER MONEY Or just take a dump by the front tire.
Signal Mirror - great idea. I have added reflective stickers to either the back of the mirror or to the mirror case. If the rescuers are shining a light in your direction, it's easier to let reflective tape signal back than to align a mirror to reflect back to them.
Years ago I got stuck in the 80 west going towards my house at Tobyhanna, PA. I highly recommend to have your car full tank of gas. I kept my car running all night. Personally, once my gas tank gets to 1/2, I filled the tank to full...
great video
Carlos Sepulveda q
In winter when my vehicle gets to 3/4 I try to refill ASAP. Helps a few ways: Weight assists traction. Helps keep down condensation in fuel tank and gas line. IF you get stuck or break down but engine still runs you have heat and electricity.
I keep those cups meals, spam and a case of bottled water in my truck, as well as electric blankets and other covering to both cover the windows to keep the cold from entering the vehicle. The electric blankets is for us humans.
Plastic would work to to cut down air flow. I also do this in my home,, mist the windows and place see thru clear plastic over the window to cut down air flow. It stick because of the water and dries till spring.
I am a native Texan who just moved to Iowa and this video is going a long way to help me prepare for the dangers of winter.
One can find a 120 hour candle for vehicle use. 1 or 2 will keep a vehicle above freezing. Keep your windows slightly cracked. You and yours will use up the oxygen. I have traveled with a kit including sleeping bag and blankets for 40+ years...did make a difference a time or two. Regarding that water bottle tuck it under your coat to keep it from freezing. One wants to keep hydrated in cold weather. Best
Been there done this working in northern Colorado...getting off after work in a night time blizzard with blinding snow... employer required that we temp employees leave the premises....snow was so high you couldn’t see the mile marker reflector signs....stores closed....vehicles stranded or wrecked that blocked roads....first responders couldn’t get there. MREs, sleeping bags, coats/gloves, survival candle, water, shovel, kitty litter, flares, common sense, & a sense of humor. Also very important, stay with your vehicle, & if you have to stay inside then keep your seat buckles fastened because of protection from sliding cars impacting your stranded vehicle & because your vehicle is first place first responders will look for you. Also keep car running if possible & tailpipe clear of snow. Keep in mind that hazard lights will run your battery down quickly. Safe travels everybody :)
I remember in 2015 when I was on my way back to Arkansas from Michigan in my Ford Explorer when I had an accident on I-55 in Missouri and ended up on the side of the road in an icy condition. I was fortunate that my SUV didn't roll over, but instead slid off the roadway without hitting anyone else. I had enough clothes and other items to get by for awhile, and also fortunate that others was there to assist me. I managed to get back on the road with the assistance of a wrecker, and state trooper, and made it home safely after that. I learned a lesson in that situation and have never decided to drive anywhere after that without making sure I was prepared for conditions.
Another great vid! As a Maine resident, I can vouch for the importance of pulling together an extreme weather survival kit. Extra hats, gloves and socks just might be the most important. But also make sure you're wearing appropriate footwear and outerwear to begin with (thx for the eye candy @3:50 to illustrate this ;) ). I know Sootch prefaced this vid by saying there's a lot more beyond the scope of these survival items, but I'll just mention that its always preferable to avoid getting stranded in the first place. In addition to keeping your vehicle in top condition with good tires, make sure you have an ice scraper, a folding snow shovel and some kind of traction aid. A lot of winter accidents are caused by icy windshields that prevented the driver from seeing/maneuvering around the danger until it was too late. And I know from experience that if you have a shovel and traction aids, self rescue is very doable in a lot of situations. Finally: +1 on having this gear on hand even if you don't end up needing it, b/c you might encounter a less fortunate motorist who does.
Keep your vehicle full of fuel. Never let it get below 1/2 a tank.
RoniiNN A. Or when someone steals your fuel...
Rick Anderson extra weight as well for traction.
TiMeJ34nD1T I bought a $10 locking gas cap precisely for that reason when I was living in an apartment and fuel was over $4 per gallon for the cheap stuff
If you treat half as empty, you'll never run out. Best advice I've ever been gives and something I absolutely live by.
Thank you Rick, for this advice. I admit I mostly wait until my tank gets to near empty before I refill it to full. It's just that there are so many gasoline stations around me that I don't have to go far for fuel. Now, I've changed my thoughts about this. Thank you.
If I may add my 2 Cents in this:
~ I always carry w/my fleece watch cap & gloves a scarf to cover the neck and/or a "Hoodie" sweatshirt to add under my winter jacket to completely cover the head area. Also, extra socks are very good, but add in a small bottle of foot powder to sprinkle on the feet when changing socks; you wouldn't believe how that can warm up and dry out your feet.
~ I always have in the trunk of my car a small hatchet or machete for chopping wood and whatnot.
Add several lengths of rope if your car slides off the road and down an embankment you can use that to help others climb up to the road, also para-cord to help tie-up or tie0down stuff, whatever the case may be.
~ Keep a #10 size coffee can w/lid in the trunk that holds water-proof matches and either Sterno can stoves or a couple of "Penny Can Stoves" (something you can look up here on UA-cam) and a bottle of HEAT from the auto parts store as fuel to either cook, melt snow for water or just to keep warm.
~ Also, if you travel with pets, like your family dog, don't forget to pack in the trunk a dog blanket to keep him/her warm and off the cold ground, PLUS a couple days worth of dog food and a pair of bowls for water and the food; they get hungry too!!
🌷I am in northern Alaska and carry all of what you said and more, but I like the idea of foot powder, thanks😊
Can't say it enough because I've seen it first hand. PREPARE FOR THE WORST. It's better to have and not need than need and not have.
You'll be a hero if you pack in some toilet paper too. Don't laugh. Think about it (well not too much).
Good suggestion, and it can also be used to start a fire
is that before or after its been used!! heh heh
I always prepare for the best and hope for the worst. Murphy's law and dumb luck
I have been building my emergency kits and fine tune my kit with redundancies. I agree better to be overprepared rather than underprepared.
I like to have a 5 gallon bucket of wood shavings from the shop instead of kitty litter, it is much lighter, does the same thing for traction and it's a great bunch of tinder.
As a Canadian there are a couple other things I keep in the car including a jumper cables, shovel, folding steel tire traction aid, candles, and a cup to melt snow in.
Most important is having real winter tires (not all season) which is a legal requirement here in Quebec. It will prevent you from being in the ditch in the first place and for me rates only second to a cell phone in terms of car safety.
Thats Interesting. Do most people keep a set of both and change their tires for winter or just wear out the winter tires in summer and not bother changing?
@@V.Hansen. These days most people in Calgary have a set of all seasons for the summer - we never know when it might hit. I've seen it in every month of the year. They switch to winter tires in September. Many tire places have storage facilities and, for a small fee, will store your tires until spring comes again.
@@V.Hansen. in alaska using studded tires in the summer cost you $2 a stud if your caught..we all have 2 sets of tires. +- if you dont have both sets on wheels its wait hours at tire shops and walmarts to get them changed $70/$80
@Bighorn44 None what state are you in?.. govt here says studs damage the roads...😠Stay Safe..
Yup absolutely. Here in Nova Scotia we have to have a good set of winter tires the season. Jumper cables too. Hand pump, bag of salt too along with a shovel and rope
I wear daily contacts so I keep an older pair of glasses in all of my vehicles. If you don't have a pair take your prescription to a place like Walmart or Costco and get a cheap pair for your car. Also, if you are going to be in an area with snow make sure you have sunglasses. My glasses automatically tent. You do not want to loose vision in an emergency situation or even have sore eyes.
Scott Person that's a fabulous suggestion, especially for someone as nearsighted as me!
That's a great idea. Thanks.
I have always carried a spare in my car since being in sports my contacts came out of one eye once. my car is almost always with me, so the spare pair is always nearby.
I also keep spare screws, nose pads and screwdrivers in my glasses case in the car, in case my main glasses need fixing
Sorry had to say it . BOYCOTT Walmart
I live in mid Minnesota. it's not so much the snow, although it can be pretty bad, but the cold. I have a giant bag with a parka, insulated overalls, mits, boots good for -20 plus the usual gear. a small scoop shovel is a good idea. a good fwd truck is a really good idea.
I once spent the night in my car out in the backcountry, my little pup tent was no protection from the cold, so I lay on the drivers seat with it reclined all the way back, flannel and heavy jacket and even a beach towel for a blanket, and put an extra T shirt over my mouth, which filtered out the cold air inside the car and my breath exhaling kept my face warm.....this was a lifesaver, there is no way I could have slept breathing that cold air all night....so always have extra T shirts or bandanas or similar fabric handy, it can save your life....
I was in the storm in Georgia in Jan 2014, it took 10 hours to drive roughly 20 miles. The key thing that helped me, I fueled up the day before because they said it was going to snow. I was worried about power outages. Since then I added a rather large winter kit to my vehicle. I have a small tent, sleeping, extra clothes, waterproof hiking boots, gloves, hat, water, dehydrated food, a canteen cup, instant coffee, three different ways of making fire and boiling water. Those are the main things, there is a bunch more that I wont list.
YOU are the reason I have a get-home-bag in my truck.... LOVE your videos!!
Thanks Brother!
I always drive safe. If it's clear dry roads just 20 mph over the speed limit. Rain the speed limit. Snow 10 mph under speed limit and ice 15 mph under, black ice 20 mph under. No, seriously I think everyone should think if it's bad conditions you got to be able to stop and look at accidents on yotube. People driving on the road clear where the tires are clear and they go the speed limit. If it's icy but clear where the tires are half the speed limit. If it's snowy like packed snow 15 mph and if it's sheer ice 5 mph. But if it's sheer ice WTF ar you doing driving for a loaf of bread? But nobody will do it so stay home if it's bad and that' a bitch in Russia because you would be home six months.
If you have to take prescription meds, keep a two day supply in your emergency bag.
Great Video Sootch, Thanks Much!
Brilliant tip. Thanks.
Definitely!
I seen a kit a while ago that added a Nalgene bottle with 2 decks of cards and dice with a few pencils and sharpener. Keeps the kids and minds active. It can be utilized in many applications. Even storing extra rounds in the bottom of the bottle. Many bottles made up this way for different applications. Much more useful than zip lock bags.
From Canada: only accelerate and decelerate in a straight line. Do not brake or accelerate into a turn. If you drive stick, make it a habit of turning only in second gear on snow. Wear a silk or microfibre shirt and a woolen sweater on top (British army woolly jumpers are the best) and something to break the wind. You will likely slip and fall so plan for it: wear gloves that will protect the hand and walk with your knees slightly bent with a slight forwards bias so that you fall forwards, not backwards (use your arms and hands to break the fall). Don't walk over ice, glide over it (push off with the foot that has your body weight over it, release weight off the other foot but do no raise it, letting it slide over the ice. Transfer weight to the forward foot and repeat) Snowshoes are light, and very useful in deep snow. Balaclavas and snow goggles are essential. If it is -20 and windy, your eyeballs will freeze and the rest of your face will be frostbitten.
A collaspable snow shovel would be a good addition. Some of the self heating drinks if still available in your area . If not then the ability to make a hot drink, tea, coffee, chocolate can really improve moral and chase a chill away.
I live in the Northeast so snow is a way of life for us. Great kit but a few additions would be kitty litter or ice melt, a small snow shovel made from some type of metal, maybe some old car mats that can be placed around the tires for traction, tow cables, and a jump pack. Also, drive slowly on the snow, be careful of ice under the snow and black ice too. I would also add sunglasses for snow glare during cold bright sunny days. Always leave plenty room between you and the next vehicle at lights, on the highway, curves, and coming into any intersections. Carry extra windshield deicer/cleaner because you will need to clean salt and sand off the windshield just riding around.
Ya...what he said
Also, the best advice would be to go out to your vehicle now and make a list of what you have...go ahead we'll wait.
Now make list of what you need, gather it all together, put it in your vehicle. See...that was easy, don't you feel better.
Thanks Brother! Lot of great additions.
Danny M
Good advice,especially for folks who are not used to our weather.
It bears repeating.
Even drivers with 4x4s need to go at it slow during the winter. Ice is not your friend no matter how cautious you are on the road.
Danny M some gems here! sunglasses, deicer, rubber mats for traction, shovel! also led headlamp
When we had a van and room to stow it, we had a milk crate with all the makings for emergencies. With a smaller vehicle, and space at a premium, we set up seasonal box with justins (Just in case) for each season. Now that it is mid-October, extra blankets get added. This came in handy one year when the heater in the van went and we had a 4 hour trip back home. Thank you for sharing a part of your day with us!
i have been thinking about this for a while and i decided that a insulated overall is the best piece of clothing to carry -
a good fire kit -
a good emergency blanket -
a wool blanket -
500 ml jar of honey and 500 ml of peanut butter -
a spoon -
a full ten c's kit -
two pair of cold weather socks -
sawyer water filter -
your right abut the pry bar-
good pair of boots -
compass and a weatherized map -
a Israeli combat bandage
Last weekend, here in Northern California an older couple got stranded in the snow on Friday night and were rescued Sunday afternoon. Being prepared with sleeping bags and some food and water saved their lives.
Great kit set up Sootch. As someone who lives with snow on the ground for several months a year, a shovel and booster cables are must haves in a winter car kit as well. A tow rope is a good idea too. Thanks for another great video!
Thought I would add this link also. www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/Dont-leave-your-car---Professor-Popsicle-288932651.html?cx_navSource=d-tiles-1 As pointed out in this video, your vehicle is a great shelter, so stay with it!
Thanks for the add on! You're spot on.
Torossifa
I really don't understand why anyone would thumbs down a preparedness video.maybe they hate life idk.I don't get it.another great video thanks brother.
It's my thumbs down club. I'm use to it : ) Thanks brother!
Yeah everybody has those clubs, that's life.
james lester haters gonna hate
We definitely need vids like this. Great vid! Some people don't want to think anything will ever happen.
I live in North Dakota, and I am an active member of the National Ski Patrol. For the most part I liked your video, two crucial things that I noticed were missing: a shovel, and kitty litter. You need to be able to shovel your way out of a snow bank or a snowy ditch, and kitty litter, which is great for helping to regain traction in the snow after you dig yourself out. Any of those tools that he mentioned can also be useful for chipping away at ice by tires (I commonly use ski poles for this).
Isopropyl rubbing alcohol can not only sterilize wounds but can rapidly melt ice on windshields rear view mirrors and key holes
Another great video. One tip for water storage in your vehicle during even sub zero weather.
Place your water bottle INSIDE a touque/ winter wool pullover hat. Water wont freeze.
Extreme winter surviving? Thats what I call Tuesday here in Norway :D
Videos like this never get old! We just had a snow storm this week and people were stranded on I-95 for between 8 and 19 hours. They all could have used this information. But preppers are crazy, right? I'm always ready!
Saw some of this in 1990s Illinois highway snow storm and blizzard, people skittering off highways down hills, black ice, 18 wheelers, and 4 wheelers all askew. Saw people in Wyoming all over the road. Was in the 1990s locked down Oregon Columbia Gorge snow blizzard (15-19 feet of highway snow !), shut down Portland. Saw the most stupid of Houston traffic with first frost and snow, and people driving 70 mph and bouncing cars all over the road with wet ice. Always good to be prepared, ... and not go out in STUPID WESTHER IN THE FIRST PLACE (Darwin's Award).
Had a couple in Nor CA, got off highway and stuck in off road snow. Man got out, leaving wife and children to go get help. Later car found and people rescued. Husband found frozen to death (near naked). NEVER LEAVE THE MAIN ROAD, ... and NEVER GET OUT OF THE CAR. Put up flashers, orange flags (red/orange tube tents), and line windows inside with space blankets. Blankets and QUILTS, even monkey suits for each person in the car. Hand/foot warmers (lighter fluid model or chemical packets) for 3 days time period per person. Water in soda pop bottles (inside car, not trunk) and food/snacks in the car/trunk for eah person for 3 days of meals. 2-3 pairs of extra HD wool socks, or double layer hunting/hiking socks for the feet. Good LED (and blinking red) battery flashlights, or hand-crack radio w/ LED flashlight.
Sootch, it's early Fall 2018 but I'm already coming back to this for a review. Farmer's Almanac says this Winter is going to be a beast, and as an OTR truck driver I always want to be ready for a weather based SHTF situation. The tractor is my home away from home and I'll stay with it as long as I can, but I also believe in being prepared if I have to evacuate. Food, water, medical, shelter, fire, etc, would all come into play in an evacuation, and for motor vehicle operators that's a given from the beginning of a SHTF.
Thanks for having this video up.
add some TP or wet wipes
Andu BMF wet wipes are the way to go.
@@sigspearthumb2313 You ever try using a frozen wet wipe?
Bottle of alcohol and roll of paper towels. More uses.
Baby wipes even if they dry out can be remoisten because the cleaner is till in the wipe, I have two pacs in each of my 3 bug-out bags, staying clean smell better and keeps you from being found if you stink by bad people!
How to stay warm, dry, and hydrated should be the things you think of when determining what you will need. A "survival situation" occurs when something happens and you are not prepared for it. Telling two different people when and where you are going and the route is so important. If the route changes, let those people know ASAP. Great video and ideas. Thanks.
Great tips/ideas!
Not sure if it has been mentioned, but you can download "offline" maps to your phone (Google maps). Doing so will allow you view the map and location even without an internet connection. Its dependent on the GPS antenna. What I do is download a specific area where I am travelling to just in case there is no service. And it has helped especially when we are in a remote area with no cell service and I am not familiar with the roads. *Note: depending on the size of the area being downloaded, it will take up a certain amount of memory from your phone.
old timers used to carry a gallon can with a roll of tp in it soaked in lamp oil or diesel for a survival stove and dry fruit & jerky in some kind of mouse proof container that could be used on the stove
When driving in the winter, remember that it's more important on how fast you can stop as opposed to how fast you can get going. I find it important to find a place you can practice skidding and find out how your car reacts in slippery conditions. One other thing, a small accident can turn into a big one by over-correcting, over-braking, over-steering. If you find yourself in the grass, stay in the grass. Over-steering or braking can cause a car to roll-over.
It is astounding how may people who live in that type of weather are not ready. Based on my own life's experience I've had a winter kit since I was in high school. I am now 36, you channel has helped me better prepare thanks bud.
Some good essentials there, another thing that would be a good idea to add would be a cooking pot to melt down some snow for water, you can put it on a fire or the engine block if the vehicle is still usable.
0:33 I was stuck in that jam a couple years ago and remember watching that car go up in smoke from under the 540 overpass. A ton of people abandoned their cars and were walking in their office clothes. My usual 20-30 commute home took 5 hours, mainly because folks in NC lose their minds when it snows. I was not prepared at all for that afternoon and ever since then, I keep enough in my Jeep to get by in another situation like that and to potentially hike home. This channel has provided a ton of good info and has given me a lot of ideas for my car kit.
First aid kit was missing. If you take medicine, always take a few days worth with you. A toothbrush and floss is important too. Floss can be used for a snare too.
If you have a pet along, take food and what your pet needs too. I think that even a sled could be handy, and a snow shovel. Definitely a snow shovel.
I'm glad that you mentioned a map. I couldn't find a map anywhere in our area when we moved here. I had to go into the next county's AAA to get local and state maps. The gas stations here don't sell or carry them anymore. They are becoming harder to find.
Another thing to carry is a whistle. Whistles sound carries when your voice does not.
my main focus right now is to get 3 week pantry(which includes water), and back up heating and lighting system. for my home and as this video is about car kit!!! great topic and tips!!!
I need a bigger trunk. Also add a first aid kit and I use road flares, available at walk mart or any parts store. Great for fire starting and signaling.
MidwayShooter that reminds me to go get new flares, I keep forgetting and temps will be sub zero soon.
I forgot also !! LOl Good catch
Thank you sir we live in New York City but I’ve seen first hand stranded people from snow storm. N I’ve been wanting to put together a emergency bag for my girl friends car. I pretty much could take care of my self since my edc bag is also get home bag. But with your video I can show her it’s important to be ready. Thx again sir. 👍
Storing the water upside down so if it freeze from the bottom to top, is good tip. Having a tea light(s) candle heater can help also keep the chill down. Use the vehicle heater sparely as needed and keep a window cracked to avoid CO/CO2 build up inside. Standard cat litter/sand with cables and shovel too C.R.
Very good. Thanks!
I keep cans of Sterno both to provide heat and to melt ice and snow to mix with the freeze dried mountain house food pouches.
Creative Redundancy that water thing really works. it will freeze the big end first? that's neat. good to know
yeah i live up north so I try to hold my water like that ...quite welcome queen
Great video Don.Just a few notes:First, water expands by roughly 10% when frozen. I usually remove a little more than 10% of the water from any container, that way you maximize the amount of water you can carry. I'd also keep some type of metal container to be able to melt the snow/ice if your water source freezes.Second, if you are keeping all of this in your car, grab some sort of container to keep it all in. I donno about you, but my trunk can get messy. If everything is stored in a nice Rubbermaid/Starilite container, it's easy to find/grab(especially the smaller things). Last thing you want to do is to go through your trunk in a blistering storm to find that lighter or ferro rod.I also like to keep some large hand warmers in my car as well. They take up almost no room, last for years and provide a nice source of heat to help keep you moving.Keep up the great work.
I totally understand keeping prepared. I live in South Florida. In January, we've had nights where it got down to 36°. Scary !!
That's why I always keep a windbreaker jacket in my trunk.
mallory1970 tell me about it. I drank regular tea instead of iced tea that day
stay strong brother.
Brad Basham Lucky to be alive
But on the positive side, alligators are slower in those temps...right?
In Toronto, at 36°, we start thinking about putting on long pants. :-P
Empty bladders inside box wines: pull the spigot plug from the bladder, rinse out, fill with fresh water. Replace the spigot plug and, with spigot open, press the air bubble out. This is five liters of fresh water, lies flat, stores under seats. I keep several of these in the garage for power-outs: we're on an electric well pump. Use to flush toilet, etc. It's fresh water with a spigot! Also, tea candles or emergency candles in something like an empty cat food can will help warm the vehicle. Crack a window.
Now that's an interesting idea! I will try it!
Fantastic video! Just put my winter kit in the car last week along with my everyday kit that's always with me. Between the 2 I can make it 96 hours easily. I drive 100 miles everyday for work to me this is a must have.
Don, another good idea would be a small pot or something that u could use to melt the ice that your water supply could potentially be. they sell a heating element that u plug in a cigarette lighter that u can place in a coffee cup to warm your drink up with you can normally find them in truck stops that work great as well for melting ice. another idea would be an ice pick. just things I used to keep as a long haul truck driver who always prepared for any kind of weather conditions.
I recently replaced a few pry bars in my bug out bags with the small Stanley fubar tools. I've used them in the past and haven't had any issues.
Nice tips. In addition to most of the stuff you listed, I also keep a big synthetic sleeping bag, 4 seasons rated sleeping pad, & a 1 person tent in case my car can't be slept in; the sleeping bag & pad are great for sleeping in your car as well even with no heat source. Also pack an MSR dragon fly stove & a big bottle of fuel, with a pot to boil snow instead of packing water, because I've found it's quicker to melt snow than melt a big chunk of ice. Also a few dehydrated meals because it's better long term energy than quick sugar bars & it keeps morale up. After having been stranded overnight twice, I basically pack an old mil surplus pack with most of the essential items I use when winter camping in Michigan (such as toilet paper). One other major tip is to keep your gas tank full & make sure your car's battery is healthy; overnight is easily done without being fully prepared if you have the gas to keep you warm & a good car battery that will allow you to start your car for small periods at a time where the battery will become drained fairly quickly due to not really being charged when only idling with heated seats on
I was driving home from vacation from Florida to Ohio and went throw Atlanta at 8pm on the night of the ice storm that was the most crazy thing I have seen if you would think of a apocalypse that would be it my wife counted 178 cars on the side of the road or ditch driving through town... unfortunately we couldn't find a hotel and sleeping in our car wasn't a option and crappy thing we was in our Dodge Charger that was rear wheel drive:( but being from Ohio and dealing with that yearly we just went slow and kept going and made it through it we was one of the few cars I seen driving... when we was on 75 we would go under a bridge that would have a slight tilt to the road and we would hit the ice and slide down the tilt till we hit dry road. We ended up driving all the way to Chattanooga before we found a room to stay in.. wish I had this kit then for sure ! Good idea and now have these in all my vehicles
I was in Atlanta that day as well. The snow was a joke. People there are just afraid and also don't know how to drive in it. In Grand Rapids, no one would bat an eye at that Atlanta snow. I lived in the mountains of Virginia at the time I got my license. Got it in November with snow on the roads. Had to make a right turn out of the DMV and up the steep snowy hill right off the bat when I took my driving test. Got my license, and the FIRST chance I got the next time we got a good snow, I drove my grandmother's Ford Fairmont station wagon to the park where I proceeded to speed through the parking lot then crank the wheel hard over into a spin, and learn to corrective steer.
16 years old, and KNEW that one day I would drive in snow, and so taught myself how to do it. That's something people lack. The realization that they need to take it upon themselves to know how to drive in the snow, and learn to do it.
I dident drive through the city that day. I drove the back roads. In a rental car. On the west side. I went from Villa Rica through Dallas, through Cartersville, to I-75 and on up to Chattanooga where I was living at the time. When I came back down 2 days later, cars were STILL stranded. Some stayed stuck in the road for up to a week. It was rediculous...
@@tabithamartin4092 I live in Atlanta area, in 2014 the biggest problems were the state had 2 trucks for snow and every city, county, state, and federal office plus privately owned business all let their employees leave at noon. All of the schools also let out at around noon. That was the beginning of the end, lanes on the overpasses were blocked by semi trucks getting stuck on ice, all of the idling cars melted the snow which froze when the sun went down. The snow was not the problem, the ice coated roads is a huge problem anywhere. I had my Wrangler I was good, only slipped once when I got pissed about how people were driving and put to much throttle.
Since then we had 10 inches overnight and no problems because the government has since bought about 30 snow plows for the metro area and trucks to pre-coat the surface with brine. But I have also seen 145 car pileups from states that get a lot of snow because people are too comfortable driving in the snow and forget the vehicles cant stop from 60 as fast and they plow into the cars wrecked in front of them. Just last year jan 2018 Cedar Rapids had a over 70 vehicle pileup that killed at least one, but they know how to drive in the snow right. As far as I can recall, nobody died in Atlanta in 2014.
@@paladin11C40 excuses...
You just gave nothing but excuses. As I mentioned earlier, "I" was in a rental car that day. You know, a random shitty little car that I was driving for the first time. One with OUT snow tires or 4wheel drive, or chains, or even an ice scraper...
. Ice? I have driven a bigrig, on black ice through Montana,. Driven one on icy roads in Wyoming in 50+ mph winds with an empty trailer, maneuvered one through an accident in progress on icy roads in Lansing Michigan. I have crossed Donner Pass under the chain law, with OUT chains (they made them required right AFTER I passed the inspection booth). I have driven through several blizzards, ice, hail, sleet, rain, in several States, in every kind of wheeled vehicle. I have even rode motorcycle in snow (which sucks in EVERY way btw...).
It's not about the weather. It's about personal responsibility. TEACH yourself to drive in adverse conditions. Have an EDC, BOB, get home bag, and emergency kit for your car. Keep all season or snow tires on your car and say screw the bad fuel mileage. And frakkin actually pay attention to the weather, be prepared, and have a plan AND at least 1 back up plan, already thought through before you ever walk out your door.
@@tabithamartin4092 No, I gave facts about the equipment the state had at the time. I gave facts about how the whole mess started, which was about 300,000 vehicles hitting the road at the same time. I would expect a professional driver, like yourself, to be able to drive in these conditions. You say TEACH yourself, you want 10 million people to travel to the northern states in the winter to teach themselves to drive in a condition they MAY face once every 5-10 years? You want the same people to purchase snow tires for an event that might happen once every 5-10 years? It snowed once in Miami decades ago, should they also take responsibility and teach themselves to drive in the snow and buy snow tires? That is ridiculous. By the way, people were paying attention to the weather, the weather report that day was possible wintry mix. It was expected to be a none event, I was in the city before and after because I live here, you were traveling through and may not know the facts about what was going to happen. You probably didnt hear that the state got hammered because of how this was handled and purchased a massive amount of equipment to make sure this would not happen again, which it has not. I can drive in the snow, I have a 4 wheel drive vehicle, and I do keep things in my vehicle for certain events, and I did not get stuck.
You are the greatest driver of all time, nobody else can drive any vehicle like you. Does that stroke your ego enough? It sounds like you have a lot of reasons to have snow tires, chains, plans, and all the other things because you are from those areas. You seem angry that not everybody is like you. When I was younger it snowed a little in LA county, I can guarantee you none of those 16 million people in that county would be ready for a snow event in LA either.
We live in Buffalo and snowstorms are a fact of life in the winter. The first line of defense is to know how to drive in ice and snow and anticipate problems. There are lots of good ideas here. In a pack that we keep in the back of the SUV we keep snacks and water, knowing that they may be frozen. We always keep one steel bottle. I'm going to add more clothing. Wood for a fire may be difficult to get so we have a small Etsee stove with several fuel tabs, being always aware of ventilation. You mentioned it and we keep a couple of good old wool army blankets along with some emergency mylar blankets. We have a couple tarps in case of real emergencies and also a whole bin of various bungie cords and cording to help set them up. Really enjoyed the video and got a lot out of it!
Would be good to keep a small ax in addition to the saw and Mora. Great for many uses in a vehicle+survival situation, such as: breaking out a window, cutting the seatbelt; quickly processing tinder, etc.
a very good kit, i Always keep a heavy workers jacket in my car, the ones that are yellow or orange and reflective material on, so emergency crew easily see you, and it keeps you very warm
greetings from Sweden
I think one of those military compact shovels would be good to have in case it's a blizzard and you have to shovel your way out at one point
If your intestinal “main survival brain” has many doubts you should follow your gut instinct. Stay home or safe whatever your situation. People go out hunting, snow blows thick, what ever circumstance you must think, think ahead, think behind and all about sinerios that are possible, before trouble. Fire, shelter, food and water and you could stay all winter. I carry about 65 pounds in the trunk always and I have the proverbial “bug out” five pound bag in my room at home. You can’t over prepare but you sure can under prepare. This is a wonderful video.
I would suggest a ham radio and a repeater directory. You do not have to have a license in an emergency situation to use it. Also there is an app that has all the questions and its a fairly easy test. I studied while in the bathroom for about 2 weeks and nearly aced the thing. You can get a Baofeng off Amazon for less than $30 and a repeater directory for $10 for $40 I would consider this a great option.
Great video Sootch, these skills need to be taught in schools. Your suggestions are all valid especially for a freak type winter storm where it is an unusual occurrence in an otherwise mild winter climate. But if you are meaning a real winter kit then you need more items. All of the following items can be stored in your trunk:
for actual winter climes the wool blanket is a must (1/person is best);
no water nor canned food should be stored in trunk nor outside the cab area as it will be compromised (freeze over the first night then burst and thaw over your stuff) if not freeze immediately;
a telescoping shovel with a wide face to scoop out a snowbank or a high-centering situation or to clear a path in the snow;
freeze dried foods can be stored in the trunk with other gear;
a tow strap.
Bring with you each trip: a first aid kit and a small propane stove with fuel in your daypack in the cab with you along with a container for food and water; 10 essentials kit.
There is nothing wrong with self-rescue either if you are prepared (knowledge and practiced skills) for it and the situation warrants it.
my normal commute is 1 hour. two years ago we had a big snow, temps below 20 degrees and they let us go early. the whole state was let go, and on the road. it took me 5 hours to get home. almost ran out of gas in my Expedition. Have kept a BOB in the truck ever since. looking to refresh it this weekend and remind myself what I have in there :)
same thing with me, it is 30 miles to work; we had snow, but moreover ( as some may not know ) it is the ICE under the snow that causes the traffic to start sliding, wrecking and backing up. Interstates were like parking lots and took me five hours to get home too. I DID learn to keep an empty screw top bottle in the car to relieve myself... that third coffee before I left work HAD to go somewhere and I was not gonna stand out on the road and whip it out. Because, you know, uh, shrinkage.
Plus; no need to create more havoc and accidents for other motorists :)
waterman308 consider stayong at work at that point. I've done it.
I spent more winters than I liked working up in Northern Alberta in the Oil Fields. One thing I learned, and I still keep a pair of them in my emergency kit in my truck are some heavy duty, extreme cold rated HH long johns. If I got stuck, those would be the first things I'd throw on before I lost my heat from the vehicle. They are expensive, but nothing compares to them for keeping your core warm. Plus they wick away any sweat, and I got the 1 piece that leaves no holes for heat to escape. I've been stuck in the cold a few times. And they saved my butt, as well as a lil propane heater I got under my seat. Just don't have the small bottles hooked up while driving,lol. As well as I got a trappers hat, and some serious Arctic mittens In my bag I keep behind the crew cab seat with flares, and first aid, knife fire kit. Driving out on grid roads in -30/40c you just can't take chances.
That thumbnail happened 4 miles from my house. :) The light snow we got that day melted under the tires of cars but then froze to a quarter inch of ice. Didn't matter what you were driving- if you couldn't get your tires in fresh snow, you weren't getting anywhere.
TWANGnBANG wow, didn't realize you live so close to Glenwood ave...
More of a issue where most of the people on the road. were NDMF,s..
Glenwood AVe in Raleigh correct.
@@davidg4081 hello from Cary
@@songbirdforjesus2381 Hello there.
I live in Colorado. You know what we call that snow scene in Atlanta? "Wednesday".
Richard Casey I live in Phoenix, Arizona. Do you know what we call that picture? What the hell is all that white stuff on the ground. I think I'll go jump in the pool again. It's currently 66 Degrees in my backyard. Sunday, Dec. 11, we're looking for a high of 72 Degrees. However, I have a fully stocked survival kit in my Jeep. Plus an area specific kit if we do go up north were it does get cold sometime. Rather then a Tea Candle I have two seventy two hour candles in cans along with spare wicks. They burn slowly with very little smoke. Once candle set in a car with several windows cracked will keep the inside air well above the outside temp.
As I am writing this the talking heads on TV broke in with some sad news. John Glenn has died at the age of 95. This may not mean much to you younger generation, but I remember when the Freedom 7 took off and orbited the earth. RIP John.
HA that's great. I lived in Tempe, AZ for eight years, but that was a long time ago. The winters there are great as well as the golf and desert.
Hot rocks in the spare tire to keep the car warm...brilliant!!!
Filing that one away.
A spare tire in the car...talk about taking up too much room when there are better ways to keep warm.
His Jeep had flipped when it slid off the road. He took his spare tire off back of Jeep and moved it inside. He built a fire outside and heated multiple rocks he found. He would take the heated rocks and alternate them onto steel whell of spare. It was a great idea and it worked.
@@CAWillie In and out the jeep...open door each time...heat escapes. If he'd used the coffee can and toilet paper he wouldn't have had to do that. Bad idea. It's called being prepared in snow country.
Great video. I live in the North of Ireland. We don't often get snow, usually a couple of days per year but every so often we get a bad snowfall, roads blocked etc. We are not set up to deal with a lot of snow. I have been out this morning checking the tyres both on my car and my wife's with a view to fit snow tyres in the next week or so. We have similar kits in both cars.
As someone who lives in the frigid part of the Midwest, you hit the nail on the head for how we survive in the winter. The car kit is a must have for every winter. We also 52nd to keep a bag of cheap kitty litter in the trunk in case it is needed to make good traction on the ground in icy situations. Thanks!
Excuse my typo
Kitty Liter was on my list but didn't make it on video. Thanks for the comment!
When you are inside a mylar blanket you can turn on a surefire type flash light keeping the flashlight inside of the blanket It will get pretty hot inside there.
Especially in a car, keep a quart paint can with a toilet paper roll with the cardboard removed from the center, in the quart can. With this, keep an unopened 90% rubbing alcohol bottle and matches/lighter taped to can. If needed, you remove top of can and spray/pour rubbing alcohol onto toilet paper. ( not all) light it. You now can cook and have a heater that only puts off moisture. No risk of carbon monoxide poising.
That blonde with the crossfire was dressed correctly to me... to me, not the cold.
Agreed : )
I would barter summa my unicorn meat for summa that there body heat.
Make my day.. Lol.
She was not hot enough for me. Because I am bad to the bone.
@General Nappa she's not hot she's freezing! 😄
Great info and well presented. In the video, hand warmers and freezing water were mentioned. Not only can hand warmers be used to keep your hands from freezing but if you do get stuck in freezing weather for an extended period a hand warmer can be used to stop your water supply from freezing. Wrap your water in a mylar blanket with a hand warmer and it will stay liquid. Rope or paracord, mechanics wire, and duct tape have a variety of uses as well. I was stranded in the middle of nowhere in north Idaho one winter and I broke a fan belt, with those three items I was able to make a belt that lasted 90 miles at ten mph. I now carry a spare belt and always some basic tools.
Life is tough and it's tougher if you're stupid. Keep your head straight and don't panic.
God bless America.
I remember that story. People just don't care until it hit them. There's nothing wrong being prepare for anything.
I live in Maine, any time I drive in storms or slick conditions I bundle up with all my cold weather clothes. Then I turn my car heater way down so I don't sweat. This way if I slide off the road or have an accident....I'm am prepared for the cold weather. If you don't have your gloves, hat and scarf on...but some where in the car...how will you get to them if you are pinned or unable to move?!?! That goes for your cell phone...driving during a storm I put it in a neck pouch and tuck it down in my shirt. This way I can access it with either hand. Also keep the biggest shovel in your car as possible on snow storm days. I also buy a 35 lb bag of popcorn at Costco or Sam'sClub, divvy it up in to smaller bags, it makes EXCELLENT material to gain traction for your wheels!!!! Far better than kitty litter!
You're the man Don! Thanks for making these videos, hope folks will watch and survive! Great vid.
Thanks Brother!
SensiblePrepper big fan from Colorado. I'd like to mail or email you, can you share either address?
Keep your kit and your boots and parka inside the vehicle with you. If it is in the trunk you might not be able to get to them. Learned the hard way myself. Also don't get careless. I made that mistake one time and nearly froze to death in a large city. Always have your kit in your car. Always! Thanks for the video. Very good points made.
UCO candle lanterns are nice because if accidentally tipped over they're less likely to start a fire. I cannot remember the YT channel I saw this on but someone used this small lantern, equipped with a 9 hour candle, and Mylar blanket to stay warm. He actually stated it got too hot. So I keep this in my bug out bag. I also keep a Luci light in addition to flashlights and never leave home without my Goal Zero Guide 10 Plus solar powered charger.
resourcefulgirl what's also nice about those is they will never lose charge due to the cold.
I know I'm late coming up with ideas, but I think something people get complacent about is listening to the forecast! If the weatherman says there is an ice storm or a big snow storm headed your way - listen and stay home! I know they don't always get it right but I bet those people on the highway in Atlanta wished they'd stayed home or waited at work to see the weather get better. Good advice and great video.
PS - I save the cotton balls I use to soak up the old scented wax from my Scenstsy warmer for starting fires - works great, smells good doing it!
Just a reminder but a first aid kit. More then a boo boo kit but not necessarily a huge trauma kit.
I had my First aid kit sitting next to the bench and it should have been included. Thanks for your comment.
All this make sense! Thank you very much.
Just one thing, I spent 15 years in french FS, and when we were expecting a very cold weather mission, we put a little bit of salt in our water. Be careful, a very little bit is enough and can avoid very efficently to freeze in your backpack
great overview!
good ideas but I still miss several items.
For the car I add in winter always at least a little sack of small stones or kitty litter or such, what may help if you need to go out from somewhere. Sometimes it is just a question of covering some feet of ice to escape. And a gallon or two of spare gas can also help a lot - in a common winterly traffic jam many people run out of gas, and even if you find after some while a petrol pump you can bet people are queuing there for hours.
For the passengers I would add to the list some simple but warm blankets - most versatile items ever, you can use them to cover you, to make a parka, to sleep in it and so on. And at least one stainless steel or aluminium water bottle is a must. If you have to stay longer and you are able to melt snow and get extra drinking water, or to make a nicely warming bed bottle, you are king. (Of course that bottle must be transported empty, if it is filled and freezes it would burst.)
And I would highly recommend to keep always a little stove like a M71 or an Esbit Stove or such ready. At least in the first time it is a great help - if you are in a blizzard you won't be able to go around and collect fire wood. If you sit somewhere in the snow but can prepare a noodle soup or something like that, all evil will be over. ;-)
This is an excellent video with a great deal of good information. I live in Canada where winters can be brutal, and deadly in a bad situation. I have been thinking about doing a video like this for my channel but it looks like you beat me to it.
Also I like the blooper reels at the end. Having done a number of videos myself I know how it is. Thanks again.
I'm from Minnesota these are all great ideas I keep extra clothes, food n water plus a below zero sleeping bag in my van every winter...
I would include a come-a-along. It's much better to get out than to stay stuck
What’s a “come-a-along”?
@@IrishRunningVlog I was going to ask the same thing....what is that?
A "come-a-long" generally refers to a cable hoist with a 1/2 ton to 1 ton rating. Chain hoists have a higher weight rating but are heavier and bulky. A hoist might be enough pulling power to get a vehicle unstuck or lift something or turn something over.
Since staying dry is so critical, I would add a rain jacket, or poncho, large enough to fit over a winter coat and an extra pair of gloves, since you may get the first pair wet trying to dig the car out of snow. A powerful whistle is always a good addition to an emergency kit; it may signal nearby help even when visibility is low. Also, a small snow shovel and something to put under your tires to gain traction, if you slide off the road. I used to keep a couple large pieces of heavy duty industrial metal mesh in my trunk in the winter, the kind that’s sometimes used underneath a tile floor installation (leftover from our kitchen renovation).
When I go to thrift stores I try to get my hands on HUGE jackets 3X or more I get them for very little money and they are so big that 2 people can fit inside one you zip up 2 people inside a big boys jacket their body heat will keep them both warm and you could care less about losing it. I have given these jackets away before when we went to a game and people got caught out without jackets. I don't give chicken shit christmas gifts but I do have things like that for people when I go places. When I fix a lunch I always fix too much to be able to offer somebody a bite if they like never know it might be all they get to eat that day some folks are having a time keeping food on the table. I always have too much food why? Because I buy by the best price for the weight. I try to buy stuff that will not spoil but if it will spoil SHARE. I get bananas from sam's club $150 for a bunch of them 8 pieces of fruit for that price you can't go wrong there and people will take it from you if you offer it becasue they figure you got it from the breakfast bar at the hotel. Oh always tell your party to grab an extra muffin or banana apple from that bar if you are paying for the hotel room. Eat it or give it away you have it in your control should you need it.
GEAUX FRUGAL hey...I was just thinking that!
I am very late to this video but massive jackets are absolutely brilliant! I have small children and being able to have them bundled up right next to my wife and I in an emergency would be way better than in a blanket themselves. Also gives you options if you see a homeless person in need too.
@@MDKDAF Never had a cold person homeless, or just a kid at the ballpark who's parents didn't pay attention to the weather turn down a jacket. Style is low when survival is key.
Thanks so much for helping me to build kits for myself and my wife this holiday. The knowledge you share is so valuable! Merry Christmas to you and yours!
Chris Pariseau We have a new driver in family this year. Guess what she is getting for christmas!
Good sound advice. I would add a pack of cards or some kind of game compendium with pads of paper and pens/pencils. A must to keep your mind busy especially with children around :) Arguing children create a LOT of heat ;)
Madlibs i think it's called - fun game for the whole family. You, as the adult, (even among other so-called 'adults' sadly) set the tone. Make that tone positive and adventuresome.
How about a last will and testament for each passenger? I know how that trip will end, and it won't end well for everyone except one.
bluenet - You seem very grim. Are you due to take a flight over the Andes anytime soon?
Lifesavers/Werther's here . Chocolate melts when I forget it in the vehicle when the weather warms up in spring.
Godshole oh really arguing create heat?
JIMMY UR A FAGIT
WAAAAAAAAA
ah nice and toasty
Great info Don. That storm that shut down Atlanta got Birmingham first, and preceded my days of carrying a bag and contents prepped for such an occasion. Like so many others, I was dressed for office work, and while I had warm clothing, items like me shoes were ill-suited for ice. Hiking boots become a staple in the trunk of my car. Always good info from you, brother. Blessings!
There are a few things I would add that are cheap and take up very little space.
A wire coat-hanger (or three)
A roll of metal cooking foil (I worded that so most of the World knows what I mean)
A British army solid fuel stove and tablets (I think this has been mentioned on the channel before)
A couple of boxes of the CHEAPEST vegetable soup in a cup sachets you can find
The wire coat hanger without being cut, along with the foil can be fashioned into a implement to contain and boil water over the solid fuel stove which can be used for the soup.
Why vegetable soup in a cup? If you find yourself stranded there will probably be others as well and I can almost guarantee one will be a vegetarian. In reality the soup can be anything, but in itself a hot cup/bowl of soup is a big moral booster.
The remainder of the foil can be laid out to give a visual signal for aerial rescue.
brilliant!!! thanks! Soup or even bouillon cubes would make a great boost for morale!
YOU and your videos are my lifeline .. and probably will be my lifeline to keeping myself and my 2 sons safe whenever the SHTF. I am a single mum and am trying hard as I can over here in Australia to prep. It is very hard on my own but at least I have started and am continuing with what I can. Thank you for all your tips and videos. This is probably going to sound silly but .. I don't have a dad here on this earth anymore and I look to you and your videos for the practical, knowledgeable info that you provide .. so you're sort of like my 'stand in dad' for this. So thank you again for all your sensible wisdom from me and my boys.
I’d add maybe a mountain house meal or two. Just enough to ration out.
Mountain House or any other dehydrated/freeze dried meal requires the ability to heat water to near boiling IOT add to the pouch. Better carry a spoon also to eat it.
a few other good additions for your winter gear should be a small snow shovel, a hatchet to split firewood, reflective safety vests, and a way to waterproof important items such as your phone, firestarters, or medication. anything from zip lock baggies to unlubricated condoms will work well. also wouldn't hurt to have a folding reflective safety triangle to get people's attention. amazing video as always!
Sootch00, tell me where the stranded woman at the 3:50 mark us. I'm on my way to save her now! lol
Great timing! Thanks for the motivation. I'll be putting the bags in the car in the morning. Cheers!