Emergency Items You Should Have in Your Vehicle in Case of a Winter Storm

Let's say you get caught up in a snowstorm while you're driving and then all of a sudden, you lose control of your vehicle and end up in a ditch on the side of the road.

Let's hope this never happens to you, but what if it does?  Would you be fully prepared with your own winter emergency kit that you took the time to organize just in case you need it?

It's really important to pay attention to what the weather forecast is calling for.

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For example: the entire mid-Michigan area is under a winter storm warning until Thursday night at 11 p.m. We could see accumulation from 8 to 10 inches before it's all over with.

If you're going to be driving during the snow storm or traveling to another town or city, what would be in your emergency kit?

Here's what you should have in your vehicle in case of an emergency:

1. Jumper cables. No doubt about it. Jumper cables are an absolute necessity. If your car stalls out or whatever, these are good to have as part of your emergency kit.

2. Flashlight. Keep a flashlight in your glove compartment or any place in your vehicle where it's easy to access. A flashlight will come in very handy especially when the sun goes down.

3. Cellphone and charger. To make emergency calls and to basically ask for help from family and friends.

4. First aid kit.  I have a first aid kit in my car just in case I need to use it. It's loaded with bandages, gauze, disinfectant, and other supplies.

5. Make sure you have a full tank of gas. This is extremely important because you can keep your car running and stay warm with the heat cranked up inside.

6. Emergency roadside flares. On my list because I don't have any roadside flares.

7. Extra blankets. Always a good idea to keep a few extra blankets inside your vehicle to help keep you and others warm.

8. Water and snacks. If you end up on the side of the road stranded, it's always good to have extra snacks and water on hand.

By now you have a pretty good idea as to what you should have in your very own winter emergency kit.

Here are a few more ideas from familyhandyman.com.