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Truckers need warm, layered clothing like
insulated jackets, waterproof boots, wool socks, gloves, and a hat. They should also carry winter supplies such as a heavy-duty sleeping bag or blankets, hand and foot warmers, extra food and water, a flashlight, charging equipment, and ice cleats or traction spikes for their boots.
Clothing
- Layering is key: Thermal base layers can be worn under a main outfit for added insulation.
- Outerwear: An insulated, waterproof jacket and waterproof snow pants are essential.
- Hands and feet: Pack insulated, waterproof gloves or mittens and warm, wool socks. Winter boots should be both waterproof and insulated.
- Head and face: A winter hat (like a wool beanie) and an insulated face mask will protect from cold and wind.
- For warmth and shelter: A heavy-duty sleeping bag or thermal blankets are crucial if you have to spend time outside the truck. Hand and foot warmers can provide extra warmth.
- For traction: Ice cleats or traction spikes for your boots can help you maintain footing on icy surfaces.
- For communication and light: A fully charged cell phone with a reliable charger is a must. Keep a flashlight and spare batteries in the cab.
- For emergencies: A first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher (a DOT requirement), jumper cables, and warning devices are critical for safety.
- For delays: Stock up on extra non-perishable food and water in case you get stuck due to weather or road closures.
Every truck should have
a winter kit with emergency supplies like blankets, non-perishable food, and a first-aid kit, along with tools such as an ice scraper, snow brush, and shovel. Essential for safety and mobility are traction aids like sand or kitty litter, a tow strap, jumper cables, and chains or snow socks for icy conditions. It's also crucial to keep extra clothing, a flashlight, and extra batteries on hand.
Emergency and survival
- Emergency kit: Includes a first-aid kit, flashlight with extra batteries, and flares or reflective triangles.
- Warmth: Blankets or a sleeping bag, plus extra warm clothing like a heavy coat, gloves, and hats.
- Food and water: Non-perishable food and bottled water.
- Communication: A portable power unit for your phone can be helpful.
- Personal items: Consider including things like wet wipes, toilet paper, and hand warmers.
- Traction aids: Sand, kitty litter, or specialized traction mats to use if you get stuck on ice.
- Snow chains or socks: Especially important for driving in areas with mountain passes or heavy snowfall.
- Snow and ice tools: A snow shovel, ice scraper, and snow brush are essential for clearing your truck.
- Tow strap: A recovery tow strap is useful for pulling a vehicle out of a ditch or getting pulled out.
- Jumper cables or power pack: To help with a dead battery.
- Extra fluids: Windshield washer fluid (winter-grade) and diesel additives to prevent gelling.
- Tire maintenance: Check tire tread depth and ensure correct inflation. Consider snow tires if you live in a region with heavy winter weather.
- Tools: A basic toolkit, jumper cables, and a tire plug kit can be a lifesaver for minor issues.