Chicago, IL – As the first snowfalls of the season arrive across the northern United States, drivers are being urged to check their vehicles for winter readiness. Whether you’re traveling through the Rockies, the Great Lakes region, or the Pacific Northwest, a well-prepared car can make the difference between safety and danger in freezing conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, winter storms can arrive quickly, bringing whiteouts, ice, and subzero wind chills that can strand motorists for hours. Building a reliable car emergency kit is one of the simplest steps to stay prepared.
Here are 10 must-have items for your vehicle this winter:
- Jumper cables – Cold drains batteries fast; always carry cables or a jump starter.
- First aid kit – Essential for treating minor injuries on the road.
- Water and snacks – Choose non-perishables like granola or nuts for long waits.
- Warm clothes and blankets – Hypothermia can set in quickly if your car loses heat.
- Cell phone charger or power bank – Keep communication open during emergencies.
- Shovel and ice scraper – Necessary for clearing snow from around tires and windows.
- Sand or kitty litter – Adds traction when tires get stuck on icy surfaces.
- Flares or reflective triangles – Make your vehicle visible in low visibility conditions.
- Spare tire and tire chains – A flat tire in freezing weather can be life-threatening without a backup.
- Full tank of gas – Keep it at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up.
Experts also recommend checking tire pressure weekly and monitoring weather forecasts before any long trips. If you’re caught in a storm, stay with your vehicle, run the engine for warmth only intermittently, and keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
Winter 2025 is shaping up to be colder and stormier than average across many northern states, according to early forecasts. Preparation now could prevent dangerous roadside emergencies later this season.
What’s one winter emergency item you never leave home without?
