If you and your loved ones are planning on traveling in the snow this winter, here are a few tips to help everyone stay safe.

Winter coats and car seats

Before road travel with children, it’s always a good idea to check your car seats to ensure they are installed properly. If you are unable to make it to an in-person inspection, you can always schedule a virtual one with a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician (CPST). For more information on local car seat inspection services, click here.

• Remove bulky coats before getting in the car seat so they can be buckled in snugly.
• Use a blanket or put their coat on after buckling them in.
• Kids that use wheelchairs may need extra blankets for their legs in the car.

Winter travel

Always check the weather forecast before traveling. When bad road conditions are expected, it’s best to stay off the road if you can.

Make sure you have a full tank of gas before you start your road trip.

Check your tailpipe for snow. It’s a very simple and quick task that is easily forgotten by busy parents. Before you get in your car, do a quick walk-around and make sure your tailpipe is clear of snow, to avoid run-ins with carbon monoxide.

In case of unexpected travel delays or an emergency, keep an emergency bag in the car with the following items:

• non-perishable food
• water
• medications
• hats, gloves and blankets
• wipes for sanitation after eating and bathroom breaks
• first aid kit
• ice scraper for windows
• a shovel

In the event you become stranded,

• Stay in your car to avoid hypothermia.
• Notify authorities that you are stuck and where you are, so help can find you if they can get to you.
• Make sure the tailpipe is not blocked with snow. A blocked tail pipe could lead to dangerous levels of carbon monoxide in the car if the engine is on.
• Use fuel sparingly and be aware of your fuel levels.
• Make your car visible with a bright scarf or other piece of fabric.