According to a survey conducted by OP Pohjola, many Finnish drivers are not well-informed about the necessary safety equipment for their vehicles and their proper usage. Atte Erkamo, responsible for vehicle insurance at Pohjola, expressed concern that only just over half of respondents reported having a reflective vest in their car, which is problematic given the safety implications. Reflective vests are crucial for visibility when exiting a vehicle on the road, particularly when setting up a warning triangle in low-light conditions.

The survey further points out that during the autumn and winter months, when conditions in Finland can be particularly hazardous, other essential items are also surprisingly lacking in vehicles. For instance, while just under half of the respondents reported having either a pocket or headlamp, only 36% had a foldable snow shovel in their car—tools that are vital for navigating snow and darkness safely. Erkamo emphasizes the importance of having these items, as they can make a significant difference in emergency situations.

With severe winter weather often creating difficult driving conditions across Finland, the article underscores the need for drivers to be prepared and equipped with the appropriate safety gear. This lack of preparedness poses not only a risk to the drivers themselves but also to other road users. As such, raising awareness about the essential safety equipment could lead to safer driving practices and better protection during adverse conditions.