The winter car kit

If your car gets stuck in snow, you may wait a long time for help. A kit in the car keeps you warm and fed while you wait, and gives you a chance to dig out. Pack it in the fall and leave it in the car until spring.

To stay warm and fed

• Blankets or sleeping bags
• Dry clothesA spare hat, gloves and socks take little room.
• High-calorie food that keepsReplace it each fall.
• A water container, a small can and waterproof matchesThe can lets you melt snow for drinking water.
• A first aid kit
• A knife
• A large empty can, tissues, toilet paper and paper towelsThe can serves as an emergency toilet if you're stuck for hours.
• A candle and matchesA candle gives light, and in an emergency it gives off lifesaving heat. Crack a window while it burns.

To get unstuck

• A shovelA short folding one fits in most trunks.
• A bag of sand or cat litterSpread it under the tires for traction.
• A windshield scraper and brush
• A tow rope and booster cables
• A basic tool kit

To call for help and find the way

• A phone, a charger and spare batteriesLeave the charger in the car all winter.
• A flashlight with extra batteries
• A compass and road mapsA phone's battery can run out, and maps still work when it does.

Before a winter drive

Have the car checked and winterized before the cold sets in. Before a long trip, top off the fluids and check the lights, the heater and the wipers. Keep the gas tank mostly full, which lowers the risk of ice forming in the tank and fuel lines.

Avoid traveling alone if you can. Tell someone when you're leaving, and your main and backup routes. Call 511 for road conditions before you go, since construction, weather or a closure might change your plans. On the road, drive slowly in snow, and treat any road near freezing as icy.

If the car does get stuck, stay inside it and keep the tailpipe clear of snow. Winter driving, before you leave and during the storm covers what to do while you wait for help.