Worst-Case Winter Driving Survival

Nov 29, 2010

By Staff writer State Farm™ Employee

Winter driving conditions can turn treacherous in an instant. Snow, ice, poor visibility and extreme cold all threaten to disable your vehicle or make roads impassable. Even on a relatively short trip, you can find yourself stranded for several hours. It's important to be prepared for such a situation. Your life could depend on it.

What to have in your vehicle

In addition to the just-in-case items you should always have in your vehicle, such as jumper cables, tire-changing tools, flashlight and a first-aid kit, be sure to carry these winter essentials:

  • Cell phone and charger
  • Blankets
  • High-calorie, non-perishable food
  • Extra clothing (wool socks, gloves, hats)
  • Small can and waterproof matches to melt snow for drinking water
  • Road salt or cat litter to help with traction
  • Camping shovel Ice scraper and brush
  • Tow rope
  • Brightly colored flag or cloth to tie to your antenna

If you are stranded

If a winter storm strands you with your vehicle, stay calm and follow these tips:

  • Pull off the highway (if possible), turn on your hazard lights and hang a distress flag from an antenna or window.
  • If you have a phone, call 911 and describe your location as precisely as possible. Follow any instructions from the dispatcher.
  • Remain in your vehicle so help can find you.
  • Run your vehicle's engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. Open a downwind window slightly for ventilation and clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
  • Exercise a little to maintain body heat, but avoid overexertion and sweating.
  • Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
  • Don't waste your vehicle's battery power. Balance electrical energy needs – lights, heat and radio – with supply.
  • At night, turn on an inside light when you run the engine so help can see you.
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Tags battery, brakes, cell, conditions, hazard, headlights, ice, snow, stranded, visibility, weather, wipers

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