Richmond, Va. (WRIC) -- AAA shared on Wednesday that its emergency roadside crews have been busy since the winter storm with extractions, towing and battery service. According to an AAA spokesperson, calls for vehicle battery issues rose on Saturday, Jan. 24, with 44% of its calls being for battery issues. “Our AAA roadside calls helped us track the different stages of this storm," said Morgan Dean, public affairs manager for AAA Mid-Atlantic in Virginia. "On Saturday, as the cold weather swept in ahead of the snow, battery calls surged with 44% of our calls that day being for battery issues. By Sunday, with the snow, ice and freezing rain blanketing the area, more than half of our calls were requests to help pull stranded drivers out of the snow.” On Monday, Jan. 26, AAA said snow extractions and tows combined made up nearly 60% of all the calls that came in. By Tuesday, Jan. 27, as more drivers were heading out, AAA said tows and battery issues climbed back to the top of the call chart. According to AAA, the most common reasons for emergency roadside service calls during this storm have been the following: Extractions, which could include pulling vehicles from a ditch or shoulder after a slide off Dead batteries, jump starts and battery replacements (a battery loses 30% of its power at 32 degrees and 60% at zero degrees) General engine problems and non-starts requiring a tow Flat tires and other tire problems “Many of the vehicle problems seen during this arctic blast are a good reminder of the importance of regular vehicle maintenance, especially prior to extreme weather like we see in winter,” Dean said. “Old or weak batteries will have a difficult time starting a vehicle in freezing or sub-zero temperatures; have your battery charge tested. Tires gradually lose air pressure in cold temperatures and don’t offer good traction if the tread is low. Fluids such as fresh oil, antifreeze and winter blend wiper fluid are also important to check and refresh in winter.” In addition, AAA said driving slowly and appropriately for the weather conditions can avoid crashes and slide-offs. With the potential for more snow for Central Virginia in the near future, AAA recommended putting together an emergency winter weather kit for your vehicle that includes the following: Abrasive material (sand, snow melt products, cat litter) or traction mats Snow shovel (folding shovels are available) Flashlight with extra batteries De-icer Ice scraper with brush Jumper cables or portable battery jump starter Extra warm clothing (gloves, hats, scarves), and blankets Reflective vest Warning devices (flares or reflective triangles) Drinking water and non-perishable snacks for both human and pet passengers If traveling with an infant, be sure to pack extra food and supplies First-aid kit Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, duct tape) Mobile phone (and charger) pre-programmed with rescue apps and important phone numbers including family and emergency services Cloth/paper towels ...read more read less