Winter car emergency kit: what to keep in the trunk

Pack a winter car kit by November and leave it in the trunk until spring. The goal is to handle three things: getting unstuck, staying warm while you wait, and making sure help can find you.

Get unstuck

• Folding snow shovel to dig out the wheels and the tailpipe.
• Traction mats or a bag of cat litter so the tires can grip on snow and ice.
• Ice scraper and snow brush. Clear every window and the roof before you drive.
• Portable jump starter. Cold weather is hard on car batteries, and a jump starter doesn't need another car. Most also charge phones.

Stay warm

• Wool blanket plus a mylar emergency blanket for each seat.
• Hand and body warmers, a hat and gloves.
• Water and energy bars. Bottles can freeze, so leave room in them for expansion.

Be seen and stay in touch

• Car phone charger and cable.
• Headlamp or flashlight with spare batteries.
• LED road flares or reflective triangles.
• Compact first aid kit.

If you're stranded

1. Stay with the car unless help is visible and close. A car is easier to find than a person on foot.
2. Clear the tailpipe before running the engine. A pipe blocked by snow can push carbon monoxide into the cabin.
3. Run the engine and heater for short stretches, about 10 minutes each hour, and open a downwind window slightly.
4. Turn on the dome light while the engine runs so rescuers can see you, and tie something bright to the antenna.
5. Move your arms and legs to keep blood flowing, and take turns sleeping if you're with others.