With weather forecasts hinting at possible snowfall, sleet, and a wintry mix across several provinces — including Johannesburg and parts of Pretoria — the Motor Industry Workshop Association (MIWA), an affiliate of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), is calling on South Africans to take winter road safety seriously and prepare their vehicles accordingly.
Dewald Ranft, Chairman of MIWA, warns that last year’s tragic events should serve as a sobering reminder. In September 2024, a freak snowstorm left thousands stranded for more than 48 hours on the N3, resulting in multiple fatalities from hypothermia.
“We lost lives to hypothermia last year. That cannot happen again. A well-stocked emergency kit is not just for long trips — it’s a necessity for everyone on the road this winter,” Ranft stresses.
Winter Can Strike Anywhere — and Without Warning
Ranft notes that severe weather can set in with startling speed, often far beyond the mountain passes we traditionally associate with snow and ice.
“We’re now seeing snowfall and sub-zero temperatures across a much wider area. Whether you’re on your morning school run or embarking on a cross-country road trip, you need to be prepared,” he says.
MIWA’s Essential Winter Car Emergency Kit
To help motorists stay safe if caught in unexpected conditions, MIWA recommends assembling a winter-ready emergency kit with the following items:
- Torch and spare batteries – Shorter days mean more risk of being stranded in the dark. A torch can help with roadside repairs, visibility, and signalling for assistance.
- Warm clothing and thermal blanket – Gloves, extra socks, a beanie, and a foil thermal blanket can be life-saving if your heater fails or you’re stuck for hours.
- Fully charged power bank – A dead battery can leave you without a phone. Keep a power bank handy for emergency calls, navigation, or contacting family.
- First aid kit and personal medication – Stock with painkillers, antiseptic, plasters, allergy medication, and any prescription drugs for you or your passengers.
- Reflective triangle and safety vest – These legal requirements improve your visibility if you must stop in fog or poor light, reducing the risk of collisions.
- High-energy snacks and bottled water – Vital when travelling with children or through remote areas.
- Basic toolkit, duct tape, cable ties, tyre inflator or sealant – Useful for temporary fixes, securing loose parts, or getting back on the road after a puncture.
- Vehicle-rated fire extinguisher – Ensure it’s suitable for cars, within its expiry date, and that you know how to operate it.
- Tow rope and printed road map – A GPS is only reliable with signal and battery power. A map offers a backup, and a tow rope can help in mud, snow, or emergencies.
Vehicle Readiness Is Just as Important
Ranft emphasises that preparation isn’t limited to packing supplies. “Before winter travel, have your vehicle inspected to ensure it’s mechanically sound. Ask your technician to show you how to use your car’s basic tools. Many drivers discover too late that their jack is broken, the wheel spanner doesn’t fit, or tools are missing altogether.”
Planning Ahead Saves Lives
In the face of unpredictable South African winters, MIWA’s message is clear: prevention is better than crisis management.
“Peace of mind is just good planning. Don’t wait until you’re stuck in the cold,” concludes Ranft.
