Western New York is expected to feel like -15 to -25 on Friday. There are some things you should NOT leave in your car during these brutally cold winter days.
#1 Cellphones/Computers:
The cold weather can make the lithium-ion batteries in popular smart phones, laptops, and tablets slow down or stop working.
#2 Soda & Beer:
You could end up with a very messy car if you leave pop or beer inside with subzero temperatures. The freeze temperature for many sodas are 30 degrees, and the temperature for beer that’s 5% alcohol is 27 degrees. Anything lower could cause an explosion.
#3 Canned Foods:
Eating canned food after being exposed to these types of temps could cause a rumble in your tummy. The USDA advises that this can result in a broken seal, causing spoilage. If canned food freezes, allow it to thaw in a refrigerator. "If the product doesn't look and/or smell normal, throw it out. DO NOT TASTE IT! If the seams have rusted or burst, throw the cans out immediately, wrapping the burst can in plastic and disposing the food where no one, can get it.
#4 A Low Gas Tank:
Of course you don’t want to have a low gas tank and get strained somewhere. Keeping a fuel tank more than half-full helps to prevent fuel lines from freezing. You should also check your oil, antifreeze, brake fluids, etc. By the way also check your tire pressure. Just 10 degree change can cause your tire pressure to change. You want good tread so you're not slipping and sliding all over the road.
#5 Loved Ones(including pets):
People can get hypothermia within minutes. Frostbite is no joke. You should dress in layers before going outside. Also don’t leave pets in cars or outdoors either. They could get frostbite as well or even die.
#6 Medication:
According to New York Times, drugs like insulin can lose their effectiveness if they freeze. The same for medication you have to shake before using.
#7 Eggs:
According to the USDA, eggs shouldn't be allowed to freeze in their shells. If you forget them in the car and they freeze, keep them frozen. Throw away the cracked eggs. These can be hard cooked eggs. Freezing causes the yolk to become thick and syrupy.
Here are some things you should check on your car now ahead of the frightening frigid weather.
Check your battery: cold weather can be hard on your battery. Replace it every three or four years. You can get it checked for free at any Dunn Tire location.
Brakes: you want to have a healthy brake system so you can make those unexpected stops with ease.
Fluids, like coolant and oil: coolant should be flushed every two years in most vehicles, it protects against engine freeze-up during those cold winter nights! Change your oil when recommended, dirty oil can make it hard to start your car and can cause engine wear.
Lights, wipers: you want to be seen and see! Check to make sure none of your tail lights, headlights and brake lights are out. Also look at your wipers to make sure they're not streaky, giving you a clear field of vision. Put in a windshield washer fluid that can stand negative temperatures to avoid freezing on your windshield.
Keep a good warm blanket or two in your car. A reminder to check on the underprivileged and elderly this winter.
