Because of extreme temperatures and road conditions, towing companies receive many calls for breakdowns in the winter. As a vehicle owner, being stuck on the side of the road in the colder months can be a nightmare. Below, Bolster’s Towing in Kalispell, MT, shares three tips to get through a breakdown so you can safely get back on the road as soon as possible.

Handle Winter Breakdowns With These 3 Tips from a 24 Hour Towing Company

1. Move to Safety

The very first thing to do when your car breaks down is to move to safety. If you can, steer your vehicle to the shoulder of the road, so it is less likely to be hit as you wait for a towing company. Because it’s winter, you need to consider the temperature outside. Is it cold enough that you should sit in your car with the heat on until help arrives? If you should, sit on the side away from the road, or call a friend to pick you up so you’re not sitting in danger. 

2. Call a Towing Company

Once you’re safe, give a towing company a call. You may not always have internet access on your phone while driving, so make sure to store a towing company phone number in your glovebox. Look for ones that offer emergency 24-hour services so you know you can call them anytime. 

3. Use Your Emergency Kit

Every vehicle should have an emergency kit with a few key items. Each fall, replenish your supplies to ensure that you have a blanket, some hand warmers, a some granola bars or other food. Add in a map of the area you’re traveling through and a flashlight. If you frequently drive in remote areas, consider adding a portable battery and a small solar setup so you can charge your phone anywhere. These supplies will help you weather any road emergency. 

To make sure you can get your vehicle towed in any winter emergency, keep Bolster’s Towing’s phone number on hand. Add (406) 752-4528 to your winter emergency kit and visit their website for information on their services. The towing company is available every day of the year, and their technicians offer expertise in roadside assistance, emergency, and heavy-duty towing.