Winter can be dangerous for motorists due to reduced visibility and slippery roads. In some cases, you may need to pull over for your safety.
That said, stopping can also get you stuck for hours on end. Because of this, you must have emergency materials in your car during the cold months.
So, what should you have in a winter car emergency kit? Here are the essentials as recommended by the National Weather Service!
1. Food and Water
Of course, the number one necessity will always be food and water.
When curating an emergency kit, it helps to add non-perishables that can stay in your car for months.
Some of the best foods to include in the bag are granola bars, trail mixes, jerky, or crackers. You can also add a few easy-open cans of meat.
As for water, you’ll need one gallon per person per day. If you want to be extra prepared, you may pack in a portable filtration unit and chlorine. You’ll find these at your local sporting goods store.
2. Blankets and Warmers
Next, staying warm is a priority when you’re stuck in your car during a blizzard. As such, you should include a blanket or a sleeping bag in the kit.
Remember, you may be in the car for a few hours, and temperatures can drop drastically. A thick blanket, mittens, and extra clothes will allow you to preserve your body heat.
Additionally, having body warmers and hand heaters in the kit can help you fight the cold. These air-activated portable warmers can give off gentle heat for up to ten hours.
3. First Aid Kit
Another essential addition to the emergency bag is a first aid kit.
When you’re stuck in a snowstorm, there’s no telling how long you’ll be waiting for. For this reason, the first aid kit should contain all your prescription medication.
You should be ready with the usual medicines, like ibuprofen and antihistamines. On top of this, you should include bandages and antiseptics in case of a road accident.
4. Flashlight With Batteries
A flashlight will allow you to inspect the area around you without issue. It can also prevent accidents due to tripping and even help you find your way to safety.
Flashlights work as a signal to other cars in case of an emergency, which is why you should add one to the kit.
Of course, remember to include spare batteries with the flashlight to prolong its life!
5. Flares and Fluorescent Triangles
If you’re in a low-visibility area, having flares and fluorescent triangles may be necessary.
Flares help you send a signal to rescuers even during a blizzard. They can even keep wild animals away if necessary.
Meanwhile, fluorescent triangles reflect light and let other motorists know you’re stopped. They may prevent someone from accidentally hitting your car.
6. A Shovel, Snowbrush, and Ice Scraper
Once the blizzard ends, you may have to dig your car out of thick layers of snow. In this case, a shovel or snowbrush may help you out.
You can use the shovel to remove snow and debris around your car. A snowbrush, on the other hand, can quicken the process of removing snow from your car.
Be sure to get lightweight and compact shovels and snow brushes for easier cleanup.
Finally, you should have an ice scraper for removing any ice stuck on your windows.
7. Antifreeze
In addition to the shovel, it helps to have antifreeze in your winter emergency kit.
Antifreeze is a fluid you add to parts of your car’s engine to prevent freezing.
Before you settle in for the night, be sure to apply this antifreeze so your car will run smoothly the next day.
8. Booster Cables
The cold temperatures of winter slow down chemical reactions in car batteries, causing damage. Fortunately, you can temporarily fix your car with booster cables.
Booster or jumper cables are insulated wires with alligator clips on both ends. They interconnect your vehicle to another source, allowing you to revive the battery.
9. Towing Equipment
Towing gear is an important component of an emergency car kit because it can help you get unstuck from snow.
A tow strap or tow rope is strong enough to pull your vehicle off the road, allowing you to self-rescue if you can’t get roadside assistance. It’s also great for helping other drivers facing issues in a snowstorm.
Don’t worry. Towing equipment is usually compact and lightweight. It won’t take up much space, making it easy to store in the emergency bag.
10. Sand, Kitty Litter, or Traction Mats
On top of towing equipment, it’s also best to store traction materials in the car.
Traction materials, like kitty litter or sand, are great surfaces to improve your tire’s grip. You sprinkle them on icy patches around your car. They then reduce slipperiness, helping you get unstuck.
If the sand is too heavy, you may invest in traction mats instead. These are flat, portable, and durable mats with textured surfaces. You can wedge them under your tires to create friction.
11. A Phone and Charging Cable
The best step you can take when stuck in snow is to call for help. If you’re in an area with a signal, you should tell your family or authorities where you are.
Having a spare phone and charging cable in your car can rescue you during an emergency.
12. A Survivor Manual
Note that if you’re in a blizzard, there’s a chance you won’t be able to access the internet. Because of this, having a survivor manual is a must.
A survival manual can be a simple notebook or printout with step-by-step instructions for every scenario. For instance, you can include information on how to jumpstart your car or how to dress wounds.
13. A Swiss Army Knife
A Swiss army knife may not be the first thing you think of when creating an emergency kit. Yet, it’s a small item that can come in handy during emergencies.
You can use multi-tools to tighten or loosen screws and cut fabric. They can also help open cans, cut rope, or grip wires.
15. A Towing Company’s Number
Last but not least is a towing company’s number.
When all else fails, and you’re dealing with a vehicle breakdown, sometimes it’s easier to call the professionals.
Towing experts receive training on recovering your car without causing further damage. They also have more specialized tools that can prevent unnecessary strain. In the long run, calling a towing company may save you from repair bills.
Remember, being out in the cold for an extended period can be harmful to you and your car. It’s best to call for help as soon as possible!
