Winter weather puts drivers at an increased risk of being in an accident or becoming stranded. Emergencies can happen to anyone. Whether you slip off a snowy road or fall victim to a dead battery, a car emergency kit can get you back on route quickly and safely.

Car Emergency Kit List

You can create a DIY Emergency kit or simply purchase a pre-packaged kit. Either way, we recommend storing this kit in a waterproof bag inside your trunk.

Vital Supplies:

• Jumper cables
• Flashlight with extra batteries, or a hand-crank flashlight
• First-Aid kit including band-aids, adhesive tape, gauze, antiseptic gel, medical wrap, etc.
• Multi-tool (Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman Tool)
• Road Flares or reflective warning triangles
• Cell phone charger
• Bottled Water

Winter Essentials:

• Blankets, gloves and hats
• Ice scraper
• Folding/collapsible snow shovel
• A bag of sand or kitty litter to help your vehicle gain traction in snow
• Hand warmers
• Winter boots
• Sleeping bag

Optional Additions:

• Small fire extinguisher (5-lb., Class B or Class C type) in case of a car fire
• Tire gauge
• Jack and lug wrench for a flat tire
• Gloves, rags and hand cleaners
• Fix-A-Flat for minor tire punctures
• Battery operated radio
• Lighter and box of matches
• Rain poncho
• Nonperishable foods

We strongly advise traveling with a cell phone through inclement weather in case of an emergency – only use your device when the vehicle is stopped and it is safe to do so!