Winter Survival Kits

Preparing for winter weather long before it strikes is easy and will go a long way to helping you and your loved ones stay safe through this winter. Take time at the beginning of the winter season to assemble winter survival kits, one for home and one for each vehicle.

Snow covered car

Home Kits

A good home kit is easy to make and consists of:

  • Battery-powered radio and clock
  • Blankets
  • Extra batteries
  • Flashlights and/or battery-powered lanterns
  • Non-electric can opener
  • Other baby items as needed, such as extra diapers
  • Rock salt, to help melt ice
  • Several days’ worth of food that needs no cooking or refrigeration, such as:
    • Bread
    • Canned foods
    • Cereal
    • Crackers
    • Dried fruits
    • Remember baby food and formula if you have young children
  • Several days’ worth of medicines that any family member may need
  • Several days’ worth of water stored in clean containers, or purchased bottled water (5 gallons per person)
  • Snow shovel

Vehicle Kits

For a winter survival kit for your vehicle, consider adding these items:

  • Bag of sand or cat litter (to pour on ice or snow for added traction)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Battery-powered National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio for the latest storm updates
  • Blankets
  • Container of water and non-perishable, high-energy foods such as granola bars
  • Flashlight and extra batteries
  • Jumper cables
  • Mobile phone
  • Small or collapsible shovel
  • Tire repair kit and pump
  • Tow rope
  • Windshield scrapers and brush

Travelling

If you will be traveling to a more snowy location, such as the mountains or in the northern United States, you’ll want to add other items such as a tow rope and tire chains. But most of all, when driving during wintry weather, you should also bring along your best driving skills and your patience! And remember that if possible, the safest place to be during winter weather is at home.Do not venture out in your vehicle during a winter storm unless it’s absolutely necessary.

Icy tree