Emergency Car Kits

Living in New England, it’s essential to be prepared for any situation and all types of weather, especially in the winter. Since weather patterns can change so rapidly, you can find yourself in spring conditions one day and a full winter storm the next. For these reasons we polled our staff for the top list of items they were taught to keep in their car in case of an emergency, particularly in a snowstorm.

1. First Aid Kit

Most of our staff already have this or agreed they should have some form of a first aid kit, in case of an injury or accident. Kits vary from basic to advanced survival kits which include flares and other first aid supplies. Check local pharmacies, grocery stores, and hardware stores to find what fits best in your car and what you’re comfortable using.

2. Jumper Cables

Our marketing team agreed these make an excellent holiday gift idea for new drivers and are a staple they keep in their kits. For obvious reasons, this is our number two item. Shop online for best-selling cables, or go to your local auto supply store to find a set.

3. Blankets

Blankets could make the difference between staying warm until assistance arrives or not depending on the severity of the accident and the storm. Our White Mountain Woolen Blankets make a great addition to an emergency kit and the natural properties of wool make these smaller options a strong option to keep on hand. 

4. Snow Brush / Small Shovel

While we know snow brushes and tools like this are important, having a compact shovel to help dig out from sliding off the road is beneficial. Local hardware stores and some department stores (i.e. Walmart, Target, Home Depot, etc.) have excellent options. 

5. Salt, Sand, or Cat Litter

While we’ve all heard of salt or sand and keeping a small bag in the back seat of the car, however, an interesting alternative is low-price cat litter. Having some at hand would help get traction under the tires when there is ice and you’re stuck, as well as add weight to the trunk of the car, which helps prevent sliding on ice. 

6. Extra Layers

Having a change of clothes, or additional layers of clothing is another crucial option for keeping warm. Our base layers are easily packable into a backpack to store in your car. We suggest a top and bottom, an extra pair of socks or two, and some type of headwear. If you can’t store or don’t have extra blankets to keep in your car, this is another option.

7. Gloves or Mittens

Once winter hits, most of our staff agreed that they carry gloves or mittens on their person, or keep them in the car because of frigid weather. Our Lightweight Glove Liners or Fingerless Gloves or great options for everyday use and are perfect to layer under a waterproof glove or mitten. Keep a spare option in the car in case you need to dig yourself out, or just keep your hands warm while you wait to be picked up or towed.

 

8. Flash Lights or Headlamps

Depending on where the accident is located, having a light source speaks for itself. Keep extra batteries stored with them. Shop your local hardware or outdoor gear store for the best options and recommendations.

9. Portable power banks - for phones, car batteries, etc

Colder temperatures will make batteries drain faster. Having a charged power bank to jump your car from, or charge a cell phone to call for help or send a location could be crucial. Solar-powered options are a good alternative and you can charge during the day. Shop local hardware or outdoor gear stores.

10. Multi-tool

There are a variety of options for this, however, we suggest a tool with a seat belt cutter and a window breaker. Depending on what kind of accident you’re in, these could make all the difference. Do your research and make sure you know how to use the tools you have before using them.

Honorable mention items include hand warmers, snacks, lighters, and traveling with a full bottle of water. If you must travel, talk with friends and family when you are out in a storm, so someone knows your plan. As always we recommend you don’t drive in a snowstorm if you can prevent it. 

Please note: this list is not guaranteed to save your life. 

If you are in an accident of any kind, please call 911 for emergency help.