NAPA AUTOPRO

Preparing an emergency kit for your vehicle

An emergency vehicle kit tailored for winter conditions can help you stay safe and comfortable during unexpected situations. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to include in your winter driving emergency kit, and why. 

Basic survival essentials 

Depending on where you’re driving or how harsh the weather conditions are, you may find yourself waiting hours for help to arrive. Pack these year-round staples in your emergency kit to make waiting in wintery conditions more comfortable and less dangerous. 

  • Non-perishable food: Keep your energy up during long waits in an emergency. 
  • Water: Store water kept in plastic bottles that won’t break if the water freezes. This will ensure you and your passengers stay hydrated in prolonged delays. 
  • First aid kit: Treat minor injuries until help arrives. 
  • Seatbelt cutter: This tool can be lifesaving in accidents where the seatbelt becomes jammed. 
  • Candle in a deep can and matches: This will provide both light and warmth without draining your car battery. 
  • Wind‑up flashlight: Flag down help or inspect your car easily with a flashlight that doesn’t require a battery. 
  • Whistle: Signal for help in a simple yet effective way. 
  • Roadmaps: Use this reliable backup to help you navigate and plan routes during emergencies in low signal areas. 
  • Copy of your emergency plan: An emergency can cause panic. A copy of your plan, including contact numbers and instructions, can remind you and your passengers of what to do. 
  • Power bank and charging cables: Ensure your personal devices stay charged and allow you to call for help and access emergency resources. 

Winter-specific survival essentials 

  • Thermal blanket or sleeping bag: In addition to extra clothing, these items provide insulation and help you retain body heat. 
  • Warm clothing: If your car’s heating system fails or you need to step outside, extra clothing can protect everyone from frostbite. Keep items like warm gloves, hats, and waterproof boots on hand to stay comfortable in extreme cold. 
  • Hand and foot warmers: A quick and easy way to help prevent frostbite.

Vehicle maintenance and recovery supplies 

  • Jumper cables or portable jump starter: Help to restart your car by connecting to another vehicle’s battery. 
  • Tire pressure gauge: This small tool helps you adjust tire pressure in situations where a little less pressure can get you unstuck. 
  • Tire sealant and inflator: Temporarily fix punctured tires so you can drive to the nearest repair shop. 
  • Tow rope: Whether you’re stuck or helping, a tow rope provides a lightweight solution for pulling or being pulled out of sticky situations. 
  • Ice scraper and snow brush: Remove ice and snow buildup quickly. 
  • Foldable shovel: You may be able to dig your car from snowbanks or clear a path around your vehicle so you can drive away on your own. 
  • Traction aids: Whether car mats or specialized equipment, these can improve your tires’ grip to help you free your vehicle. 
  • Sand, salt or cat litter (non-clumping): Create a gritty surface under your vehicle to help you escape icy or slippery situations. 

Visibility in winter 

Remaining visible while you await assistance not only signals drivers to avoid your vehicle but also helps emergency vehicles find you. 

  • Reflective materials: Avoid the risk of collision by making your vehicle visible to other drivers and emergency vehicles. 
  • High visibility clothing: Ensure that other drivers can spot you during snowstorms or at night. 

Drive safely in snow

While a well-stocked emergency kit is essential, safe winter driving habits help prevent dangerous situations altogether. Making slight adjustments to how you drive to suit winter conditions can prevent accidents and keep you in control. And don’t forget about your winter maintenance plan

If you need help preparing your vehicle for winter, visit any NAPA AUTOPRO service centre. Our experts can answer all your questions and perform any necessary maintenance tasks.