BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN) - Buffalonians love to talk the talk about our relationship with lake effect; now it's time to walk the walk, says Elizabeth Carey of the AAA of Western and Central New York.
"We just saw all of those people stranded on Interstate 95 in Virginia after an ordeal that lasted more than 24 hours. What a horrible feeling to know that you're stuck out there," said Carey.
With a lake effect storm looming, and the city of Buffalo in the bullseye, she says now is as good a time as any to prepare for the snow.
"We try to tell people in October to get ready for Winter. People were complacent since there hasn't been much snow. Now they're thinking of packing a car Winter safety kit."
At the top of the list, Carey says pack some snacks, water and have a full tank of gas. "Don't forget blankets, jumper cables, a snow brush and shovel. Also cat litter for added traction if you get stuck."
Above all else, Carey says have a cell phone charger in the car, which could be a lifeline.
Here's the full AAA Winter Car Care checklist:
Emergency Road Kit – Carry an emergency kit equipped for winter weather. The kit should include:
· Mobile phone pre-programmed with rescue apps and important phone numbers, including emergency services and family members
· Car charger for the mobile phone
· Drinking water
· First-aid kit
· Non-perishable snacks for both human and pet passengers
· Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats
· Snow shovel
· Blankets
· Extra warm clothing (gloves, hats, scarves)
· Flashlight with extra batteries
· Winter window washer solvent
· Ice scraper with brush
· Cloths or roll of paper towels
· Jumper cables
· Warning devices (flares or triangles)
· Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)
