POLICE ASSOCIATION OF NOVA SCOTIA 31 In the News... Drivers are advised to carry safety kits in cars A $20 investment could save your life. That’s the approximate cost of an emergency car kit, which police are recommending all motorists ensure they have in their vehicles. Ken MacDonald, community policing officer with New Glasgow Police Services, said the kits are particularly important this time of year. “We’re right around the Christmas holidays, which is a very key travelling time,” MacDonald said. “People are on the roads going to visit family and friends. Gas stations and businesses along the way may be closed, and we’ve already had a large snowfall earlier than we normally do.” Something that you won’t find in the kits are cellphones, but MacDonald recommends that drivers keep a charged cellphone with them while they are on the road. “Some cellphone packages have one time use, or you can set them up to just call 911,” he said. MacDonald suggest that motorists let someone know when they expect to arrive at their destination and give them information on the route they intend to take. “Any trip you’re going on, let someone know where you’re going,” he said. “If it’s a long trip, make sure you have enough fuel for the entire trip. If the weather changes, it could take you longer than expected to get to your destination. And during the holidays, some gas stations aren’t opened, so you can’t depend on finding a place along the way to fill up.” Everyone in the car should also dress for the weather, he said, in case the vehicle breaks down and they have to get out. Snow tires will help the driver control the car better on snowy and icy roads, he said. The kits are usually pretty compact and contain a little manual telling people what to do. “All of these things are essential,” MacDonald said. “Candles and waterproof matches are really important. You could be in your car and if you light these up, it could keep you somewhat warm while you’re waiting for help.” An extra blanket doesn’t take up much room, but could provide a lot of warmth in the event of a breakdown, he added. “These things can save your life, it’s been proven time and again,” MacDonald said. jvardy@ngnews.ca Some of the items that should be included in your emergency kits are: Extra gloves or mittens A safety vest Plastic of nylon call police sign Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit Candles and waterproof matches Rain poncho (can double as a blanket) Duct tape Bungee cord By Jennifer Vardy, The Evening News, December 19, 2005 Const. Ken MacDonald, community policing officer for New Glasgow, looks at some of the safety items that motorists should have in an emergency kit in their vehicles. Kits typically cost around $20, like this one from CAA. As originally published
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