The United Way of Sarnia-Lambton only has a couple of days to reach their fall campaign goal, and it’s not too late to contribute.

The organization needs just over $100,000 to reach the goal of $1,750,000 which supports over 40 programs at 20 different community service agencies in Lambton County.

Vicky Ducharme, Campaign Chair said, “Uniting under the common goal to improve our lives is what really drives our campaign. If you haven’t donated yet, there’s still time. Your gift makes a big impact on our community.”

Although many of the campaign contributions come through workplace payroll deductions at supporting businesses, individuals can also donate on the United Way of Sarnia Lambton’s website here:

www.theunitedway.on.ca.

The priority areas for this campaign are From Poverty to Possibility, All That Kids Can BE, and Healthy People, Strong Communities.

Reporting for WGRT – Jessie Wiegand

Having emergency items in your vehicle and being able to help yourself lessens the strain on first responders during weather events. The Port Huron Police Department recently published an infographic that lists the essentials for an Emergency Supply Kit.

Make sure to have a cell phone charger, a first aid kit, and jumper cables all the time. Emergency water and snacks are also good in case you are stuck in your car for an extended period of time, as are flashlights and blankets.

Never go out in the snow and cold without warm gear like hats, gloves, and boots, and don’t forget that Michigan essential, an ice-scraper. It’s good to have a full tank of gas when the weather takes a turn for the worse. Drivers with snow tires or tire chains will fare better in treacherous conditions.

Cat litter? Yes. Having a bag of cat litter or sand in your car provides you with something to pour around a spinning tire to gain traction on snow or ice. If that doesn’t work, having a tow rope will come in handy if you need a little more help to get out of a slippery spot.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland

It’s a dirty trick and it’s on the rise. It’s the theft of catalytic converters, which are essential vehicle parts that help to reduce polluting emissions. Thieves sell the stolen parts to scrap metal dealers. The parts from newer hybrid cars contain precious metals and get a higher price at the scrap yard.

Anita Fox, Director of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, said that most drivers don’t have coverage for catalytic converter theft on their auto insurance policies. Comprehensive coverage is not mandatory in Michigan.

Fox warned, “Thieves can easily remove these expensive parts from cars and then sell them to recyclers for hundreds of dollars depending on the car’s make and model. In addition to replacing the expensive converter itself, the damage caused by these thefts can be extensive and may cost as much as $3,000, or more, to repair.”

Fox said that an optional comprehensive auto insurance policy can cover the damage.

There are anti-theft devices that can deter theft. Motion detecting lights and other strategies are also recommended to deter catalytic convertor thieves.

Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland