Cold weather can bring unexpected storms, bad weather, and potential hazards while on the road, and a frigid climate can turn even a normal breakdown into a serious situation. Winter car preparedness for a snow storm, ice storm, or cold-weather event can help keep you warm and safe so you and your passengers can arrive at your destination without harm. We have compiled a list of recommended items to keep in your car to help prepare you for a winter storm, breakdown, or other traveling emergencies.
Flashlights
With shorter days and longer nights, having a flashlight in your vehicle during the winter is a great idea. Whether it’s a well-charged phone with a flashlight or a battery-powered light, roadside emergency lighting can help you around your vehicle safely, provides visibility for roadside repairs, and lets others know of your presence if you’ve broken down. In a worst-case scenario, a flashlight can also be used to get others’ attention in an emergency roadside situation. Browse flashlights to find the best one for your needs, as well as flashlight batteries to keep on hand in case you need them.
Portable Emergency Gas Can
If you find yourself stuck on the road with your vehicle running for warmth or to power your devices, chances are you may need to refill your fuel tank at some point. Having a portable fuel can with you is a great option for easy fuel transport and delivery that can help you get back on the road once it is safe to do so. If you are aware of incoming harsh weather before a long drive, it may be a good idea to fill up an extra fuel can to provide peace of mind before you go. Of course, always be sure your gas can is properly sealed to prevent fumes from building up inside of the vehicle, or leave your fuel can empty and keep it on hand in case you need to pick up emergency fuel. Choose from the best fuel containers for your vehicle’s needs to prevent running out of gas when you may need it most.
Reflective Gear, Safety Cones, Traffic Safety Items, and Roadside Emergency Kits
Being stuck on the side of the road or in traffic is dangerous any time of the year, and you and others in the vehicle may be in danger if you're not easily visible. Keeping things like safety cones, reflective gear, roadside safety flares, and other traffic safety items in your vehicle can help alert other drivers or first responders to your location.Reflective safety items like traffic cones, triangle safety frames, LED safety flares or even electronic warning lights should be used to mark behind and in front of your vehicle if you find yourself broken down on the road. These will help alert drivers of you and your vehicle's presence to avoid an accident or can help alert those that may be willing to help. For times when you are outside of your vehicle or anywhere on the road, wearing reflective safety gear could be the difference between being visible to others and being in danger. Find a variety of traffic safety gear, including clothing, lighting, flares, wands, and more to help you stay visible and safe in case of winter weather or a nighttime driving emergency.
Compact Snow Shovel and Traction Aids
In instances where your tires are stuck in a snow pile, a small snow shovel can help you get back on the road safely and in a timely manner. Falling or already dense snow can become packed around the bottom of a vehicle, and can effectively trap the wheels in place or may cover the exhaust pipe.When clearing snow from around and beneath your car, it is important you ensure the tailpipe is not being blocked or clogged by snow. A blocked tailpipe can cause carbon monoxide emissions to travel into your vehicle instead of escaping or could cause exhaust back pressure buildup that can damage or impede the performance of the engine.
If you have dug your vehicle out of snow but cannot get enough wheel traction to move, both sand or kitty litter can help regain traction. Sand is a great traction solution since it is heavy enough to add weight. Vehicles with rear-wheel drive can see major traction improvements by adding weight over the rear axle. A snow shovel can help free your tires from packed snow in a pinch, as well as ensure you and your passengers are safe while waiting for help. Browse the best emergency snow shovels to keep in your vehicle to find the right tools to keep you moving. You can also learn more about how to get a car unstuck from the snow with our helpful article.
Gloves & Hand Warmers
Cold, aching hands can quickly hinder your ability to properly respond to roadside tasks and challenges, but cold weather could also cause injury if not addressed. Gloves are an extremely important item to keep in your vehicle, since your hands will likely need to be warm and agile, whether it's while inspecting your vehicle, performing repairs, or simply waiting in your vehicle for help. Though insulated, cold-weather gloves are best, and keeping a pair of nitrile or neoprene gloves in your vehicle is a great idea since they can be used for basic repairs and can keep your hands dry. There are also hand warmers specifically designed to be used with gloves to generate warmth in an emergency situation, and these can be easily stored in a glove compartment or console in case of a wintertime breakdown. Find winter gloves and mechanic’s gloves to keep your hands dry, warm, and protected.
Thermal Blanket
When your car is stopped either in traffic, on the side of the road, or in a snowbank, having clothing or blankets on hand to keep you warm can make a big difference. Items like a thick blanket are not only a reliable option for keeping warm but can also be used as a mat if you are working underneath the vehicle to help keep you dry. Heated fleece blankets, seat heaters, and even welding blankets can also help keep you warm and comfortable in case of a cold-weather emergency. Even if you don’t have a blanket with you, keeping an extra coat, a waterproof pair of shoes or boots, or just extra clothing that can be layered can help prevent frostbite when making your repairs or until help arrives.
Tire Chains
If your tires are having difficulty getting traction in severe snowy weather, a set of tire chains can help get you moving. Snow chains are tightened and fastened around the tread of each tire and help improve grip and traction, helping move your vehicle through the ice, sleet, or snow, and are a great alternative to keeping a set of snow tires on your vehicle for the winter. Find the right tire chains to fit your vehicle to help ensure you can drive more safely, even in the worst winter weather.
Emergency Kits
A roadside emergency kit is an all-in-one option that includes critical items like a flashlight, first aid kit, reflective triangle, jumper cables, a thermal blanket, gloves, and much more that can be useful if you and your vehicle are stranded. While the contents of every emergency kit may vary, keeping a roadside kit in your vehicle can help you in case of an unexpected emergency event. Most roadside car emergency kits are stocked with supplies ranging from basic tools to medical bandages and extra batteries, and some are even available specifically for winter driving conditions. Find the best roadside emergency kits for your vehicle, as well as winter car emergency kits for cold climates.Though keeping basic tools, supplies, and more in your car can help ensure you will be safe in a roadside emergency this winter, preparing the vehicle itself for colder weather shouldn’t be overlooked. It is important to perform the appropriate maintenance tasks and system checks to help ensure your vehicle stays healthy during the cold winter months. From checking fluid levels and battery testing to checking your tires, lights, and brakes, it is worthwhile to use a winter checklist while preparing your car. Learn how to prepare your car for winter and how to get your car unstuck from the snow so you can stay safe on the road and limit the risk of breaking down. For those at risk of hurricanes, flooding, or other water or weather-related emergencies, you can also read our helpful tips on how to prepare for a hurricane to keep yourself and your car safe in nearly any inclement weather conditions.