5 Essentials for Your Car’s Emergency Kit

Winter is in full force across Canada. Along with sub-zero temperatures that can linger for days, winter brings later sunrises, early sunsets, and bitterly cold winds that can quickly turn a routine drive into a stressful situation.

Whether you’re heading out of town to visit family, commuting long distances for work, or simply running errands, a well-stocked winter emergency kit can make all the difference during a snowstorm. Here are five essential categories to include in your car’s winter emergency kit to ensure you’re prepared for the unexpected.

1."Get Out" items: When You’re Stuck but Not Stranded

Snowbanks, icy slopes, and roadside ditches are common in Canadian winters. “Get out” items help you regain traction and mobility when your vehicle can’t move under its own power. Key items to include:

• A compact snow shovel
• Tow ropes or traction chains
• Traction aids such as sand, salt, gravel, or even cat litter

These tools can help you dig out tires, gain traction on icy surfaces, or get assistance from another vehicle.

2.“Help Me” Items: When You Need to Be Seen

If your vehicle breaks down, visibility is critical for your safety. Your kit should include:

• Road flares or LED warning beacons
• A reflective safety vest
• Booster cables
• Snowscraper

Cold temperatures are tough on car batteries, and a dead battery can leave you stranded even if everything else is working. Booster/jumper cables ensure a quick fix when help arrives.

3.“Keep Me Warm” Items: When Help Takes Time

In remote areas or during severe storms, help may not arrive quickly. Staying warm becomes a priority. Pack items such as:

• Extra hats, mittens, and warm socks
• Heavy blankets or emergency thermal blankets
• Hand and foot warmers

Even short periods without heat can become dangerous in extreme cold, especially overnight or during prolonged delays.

4.“I See the Light” Items: When Darkness Falls Early

Canadian winter nights arrive quickly, and poor visibility can make an already stressful situation worse. Helpful items include:

• A reliable flashlight
• A rechargeable battery pack for your phone
• Candles and waterproof matches

These items can help you signal for assistance, see what you’re doing, and maintain communication if you’re stuck after dark.

5.“I Will Survive” Items: When Comfort Matters

While most winter roadside delays are short, having basic food and water can make the experience far more manageable. Consider packing:

• Bottled water (check periodically so it doesn’t freeze or expire)
• Non-perishable snacks like granola bars or protein bars

These small additions can help maintain energy and reduce stress while you wait for help.

Prepare for the Worst and Hope for the Best

Canadian winters demand extra preparation. Installing winter tires and maintaining your vehicle are essential first steps, but an emergency kit adds another layer of protection when conditions turn unpredictable.

By stocking your car with these five categories of essentials, you’ll be better prepared for snowstorms, breakdowns, or unexpected delays, making a roadside winter emergency a little less stressful.