SHAWANO, WI – With winter weather settling in across Wisconsin, Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Director Nick Mau is reminding drivers to prepare their vehicles with more than just the basics. Mau says simple items can make a big difference if you find yourself stranded or struggling for traction on icy roads.
One of the easiest additions, he notes, is keeping a small bag of sand, or even cat litter, in the trunk. “A small sack of sand or I even see a lot of people with cat litter just to sprinkle on the treads,” Mau said. “So there’s some tread and traction on the tires.” He emphasizes that every vehicle should also carry a sturdy windshield scraper and a broom to clear snow and ice, especially in emergencies.
For drivers stuck on slick surfaces, Mau says you may already have a tool inside your vehicle that can help. “You can also take out your floor mats and shove that behind the tire, it can help in a pinch as well,” he explained.
Mau stresses that these quick fixes are meant to help motorists stay safe until professional assistance arrives, and encourages drivers to prepare their winter kits now before conditions worsen.
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