How to Keep Kids (and Pets!) Warm and Safe in the Car This Winter

When the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, your car becomes more than a way to get from point A to point B — it’s a warm refuge from winter’s chill. But while bundling up your family for the cold is second nature, keeping your kids and pets comfortable and safe in the car requires a few extra steps. Whether you’re running errands around town or heading out for a weekend getaway, these simple tips from Kunes Auto Group will help you stay cozy and secure all season long.

Thick winter jackets may seem like a must for little ones, but they can actually make car seats unsafe. The extra padding prevents harness straps from fitting snugly, which means your child could slip forward in the event of a sudden stop or accident.

Instead:

• Dress your child in thin, warm layers (like fleece or wool).
• Buckle them in, then tuck a blanket or their coat over the harness to keep them toasty.
• Many car seat makers offer winter-safe liners or covers — just make sure they’re approved for your specific seat.

A pre-warmed vehicle makes everyone happier — especially on frosty mornings! If your car has remote start, use it to warm things up while you finish getting ready indoors.

Pro tip: Never warm up your vehicle in an enclosed garage. Always start it outside to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

If you don’t have a remote start, you can still keep the car comfortable by turning on the defroster first to clear windows, then gradually increasing the heat once everyone’s inside

Even short drives can turn into long waits if road conditions get bad. Prepare for anything by keeping a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
 

Include:

• Extra blankets or sleeping bags
• Snacks and water
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Ice scraper and small shovel
• Jumper cables
• First-aid kit
• Pet supplies (leash, bowl, and food)

A few extra items can make a huge difference if you ever find yourself stuck in the cold.

Pets feel the chill, too — and they can overheat just as easily if the heater is blasting.
 

Here’s how to keep them safe:

• Warm the car before loading pets inside.
• Use a travel crate or harness to keep them secure.
• Never leave pets alone in a running or parked car — temperatures can change quickly.
• Bring along a favorite blanket or pet bed for extra comfort.

Bonus: A cozy pet means fewer distractions for you while driving!

Cold-weather driving can be challenging enough — don’t let fogged-up or icy windows make it worse.

• Run your defroster and use the A/C setting to pull moisture from the air.
• Keep a clean, dry cloth or anti-fog wipe handy.
• Check your wiper blades and washer fluid before every trip.

If your vehicle has heated mirrors, seats, or a heated steering wheel, use them strategically — they make a big difference in both comfort and safety!

Winter weather can take a toll on your car’s essential systems. Before the first big freeze, schedule a winter vehicle inspection at your local Kunes Auto Group Service Center. Our certified technicians will check your tires, brakes, battery, and antifreeze to make sure you’re road-ready.

Good traction, reliable heat, and a healthy battery are your best defense against getting stranded in the cold.

A warm, happy family makes for smoother drives all winter long. Keep extra mittens and socks in the car, play favorite tunes, and bring along a thermos of hot chocolate for post-errand rewards. For pets, short, frequent car rides can help them stay comfortable with winter travel.

The goal? Safe, snuggly adventures — no matter how frosty it gets outside.

At Kunes Auto Group, we care about keeping your family — two-legged and four-legged alike — safe through every season. Whether it’s scheduling a winter check-up or finding a vehicle with heated seats and remote start, we’re here to help you enjoy the ride.

Visit your nearest Kunes dealership today to make sure your vehicle is ready for winter’s worst and your family’s best adventures.