So far most of the US has had a mild winter up to this point, but there are signs that the current pattern could be changing soon. Its that time of year when you can be faced with unpredictable weather and road conditions.
FEMA recommends that a basic disaster supply kit should include a fully-charged cell phone and phone charger when preparing for highway travel. Here are some tips for keeping your cell phone working well during winter:
- Keep a charger in your car so you’re always able to make calls, even if you get stuck for an extended period (you may even want to consider carrying a spare battery);
- Keep your phone programmed and updated to connect to new cell towers that are constantly being upgraded – especially as wireless provides expand their 4G LTE network in new markets (for Verizon Wireless customers, once a month, dial *228, and then press 1 to program your phone)
- You might consider getting a Bluetooth headset so that you can keep your hands free for driving on slippery winter roads;
- Another accessory option is a navigation dock, which is available for some smartphones – that way, your phone sits right on your dash so you can easily see and hear navigation directions, and you can talk hands-free as well;
- You might want to consider insuring your phone so you can get a replacement quickly if your phone drops into a mud puddle or snow bank;
- Keep your contacts updated, especially your ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts so that, if there is an accident, emergency personnel can easily find who to call;
- Back up your contacts using an app such as “Back Up Assistant” from Verizon Wireless so that, when you get a replacement phone or you upgrade to a new device, your contacts are all saved and you don’t have to re-enter them. (If you have an iPhone, this is covered if you activate your cloud backup)
Source: Verizon Wireless
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