Many of us live in areas where that would be a useless waste of money as it only snows once/twice a year. Our only option is to not drive during icy conditions or take public transport.

?? When you’re on a low income and have bills and kids to pay for…you literally have no other option. I speak as someone on a pretty low income saving/investing 60% of my paycheck. I realise my privilege as I don’t pay rent/bills. If I did I’d be homeless. Not everyone can afford an emergency fund.