Even though it came a little late this year, snow is inevitable when you live in Minnesota. And as with any extreme weather or world condition - tornadoes, hurricanes, zombie apocalypse - it's always a good idea to be prepared. Your life may depend on it.
While you can always buy completed kits from anywhere between $20 to upwards in the hundreds, you may be better off making your own. Here is a list of essential items to keep in your car in case of a snow emergency:
1. Windshield Scraper
This goes without saying and is necessary at all times, not just if you're stranded or stuck in a snowbank. However, if you do find yourself without one, some alternatives could be to use a credit card, or really, anything firm that can break ice.
2. Shovel
Again, another obvious item, however, there are many people I know who don't carry this in their trunk. I don't need to say how this tool is helpful in the event that you get stuck or trapped. Remember not to overexert yourself. Shoveling snow requires a lot of energy, and you don't want to end up injured or with a heart rate thats too high.
3. Kitty Litter
Traction. Traction. Traction. Without it, you won't be going anywhere. Another alternative would be to use a floor mat from your car, sand, or road salt.
4. Water / Food
All humans need these things in order to live. Imagine if you were stuck somewhere for a day or two. You'd get a little hungry and definitely parched. You can always use the snow as a water source, but be sure to melt it before you drink it. If you eat snow before it's melted, it can lower your core temperature and aid in dehydration.
5. Flashlight and Batteries
For obvious reasons, this item is important; however, matches, candles, or even crayons will work as a light source too. A flashlight can double as a way to be seen, though, and in that way, may be more important than lighting a match.
6. Extra Clothes / Blankets
If you're stuck in a snow bank, and you get out of the car to try and dig your way out (with a shovel, I hope), you will get wet. Having an extra pair of socks, shoes, sweats, hats, and gloves could save you from hypothermia or frostbite. It's also never a bad idea to have some extra blankets or sleeping bags to wrap up in.
7. First Aid Kit
You should be packing one of these in your car at all times, not just in the winter months. It's even better if you include a knife or multi-tool in the kit.
8. Jumper Cables
Another essential item that should always stay in your trunk. You never know when these might come in handy.
9. Flares, Reflectors, Whistle
While a flashlight can be used as a way to get someone's attention, a flare gun would probably work a lot better. If you don't have the resources of obtaining one of those, investing in reflective vests, florescent flags, or whistles will also work. Remember, Rose saved herself from freezing in the ocean by blowing a whistle, and she didn't even have a survival kit prepared!
10. Cell Phone Adaptor
Having a charger that you can plug into your car lighter, or any other way to charge your phone is very important. Calling for help could be the difference between life and death.
Final Tips: Always tell someone where you're going, no matter how far, no matter what time. You will be easier to find if someone knows where to look.
Stay inside your vehicle, especially during a blizzard. You are less likely to get lost or exhausted, and you car will always be the best shelter.
As much as you might want to, don't leave your car running for longer than 10 minutes every hour. Not only does this conserve gas, but snow can plug your vehicle's exhaust system and cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to enter your car. Make sure your exhaust pipe is clear, and keep a window cracked to let in fresh air at all times.
Lastly, if you're stuck at night, keep your car's dome lights on, and make sure someone (if there's more than one person with you) is awake at all times.
Stay safe, stay alive.
