Your Winter Emergency Kit: A Must-Have
In winter, a complete emergency kit is not optional, it is essential. If your vehicle breaks down, gets stuck, or you are caught in a snowstorm, the right gear can keep you warm, visible, and safe until help arrives. Think of it as your lifeline during cold-weather emergencies.
Core Items to Include in Your Winter Emergency Kit
Warm clothing and blankets: Pack hats, gloves, thick socks, and thermal blankets. Staying warm is the top priority in freezing temperatures.
Non-perishable snacks and water: Keep granola bars, trail mix, or dried fruit for quick energy, and bottled water for hydration.
Flashlight with extra batteries: A flashlight or headlamp helps if you are stranded at night and need to make repairs.
First-aid kit: Include bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications.
Flares or reflective triangles: Make your vehicle visible to other drivers, especially during low visibility or at night.
Shovel and ice scraper: A compact shovel helps clear snow around your tires, and an ice scraper keeps windows clear.
Traction aid: A bag of sand, salt, or kitty litter can help your tires gain grip when stuck on ice or packed snow.
Need help once you are back on the road? Read our guide to safe driving distances and skid recovery in winter.
Battery Boosters, Blankets, Chargers, and More
Cold weather can take a serious toll on your vehicle’s systems, especially the battery. Always keep a portable battery booster or jumper cables in your trunk. A quick jump-start can save you from waiting in freezing conditions.
Your phone is your lifeline, so pack a portable charger or power bank to ensure you can contact roadside assistance. If your engine stalls, a thermal blanket or sleeping bag can prevent hypothermia. Combine these with hand warmers, extra socks, and gloves for additional protection against the cold.
Extra Gear to Consider
Collapsible snow shovel: Compact, easy to store, and essential for digging out your car.
Winter-rated washer fluid: Use washer fluid rated for at least -40°F to prevent freezing on your windshield.
Spare gloves and socks: Dry clothing keeps you comfortable and prevents frostbite.
Heat packs: Lightweight, disposable heat packs can provide warmth for your hands and feet.
Preparing your vehicle is just as important as your emergency kit. Check out our guide on how to winterize your car, from fluids to wipers to heating systems.
Emergency Contacts and Roadside Tools
A strong safety plan includes knowing who to call in an emergency. Before winter begins, write down your key contact numbers and keep them in your glove compartment in case your phone battery dies.
If your vehicle is equipped with Michelin winter tires, you’re also eligible for the Michelin Promise Plan once you register your tires. The plan includes 3-Year Roadside Assistance, across Canada and the U.S., offering flat tire change, fluid delivery, lockout service, battery jump start, and towing up to 150 miles.
Key Contacts to Keep on Hand
Roadside assistance: Contact number for your provider.
Family or friends: Someone who can be reached quickly in an emergency.
Insurance provider: Include your policy number and claims contact line.
Mechanic or dealership: Have your preferred service center’s number ready.
Emergencies can happen to anyone, but preparation makes all the difference. By keeping your vehicle stocked, checking your tires, and carrying the right tools, you can handle most roadside issues safely and confidently.
Remember: your tires are your first line of defense. Before the cold sets in, make sure they are winter-ready. Learn more in our guide on when to install winter tires.
FAQ
Check your tires, battery, fluids, and lights before the first freeze. Always carry an emergency kit that includes blankets, jumper cables, and a shovel.
Yes, in many states it is illegal or can result in fines. Driving with snow or ice on your vehicle also reduces visibility and can endanger others on the road.
Most winter crashes happen because drivers do not leave enough space to stop on snow and ice. Slower speeds and longer following distances are essential for safety.
Drive slowly, avoid sudden acceleration, and always use winter tires. Keep sand, salt, or kitty litter in your car for traction if you get stuck.
Pack essentials such as warm clothing, blankets, non-perishable food, water, a flashlight, flares, booster cables, and a shovel. These items can keep you safe while you wait for help.
