Locations:
Search IconSearch
January 31, 2019/Living Healthy/Primary Care

Are You Prepared? 8 Things You Need To Keep in Your Car This Winter

Here's what you need to round up for your trunk

Man calling for help after his car goes off the road during winter driving

Life doesn’t always stop for winter weather. You still have to drive across town, despite the snow flurries quickly turning to near-blizzard — or the subzero temperatures. So how can you stay safe?

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

In this video, emergency medicine specialist Thomas Waters, MD, offers his recommendations on what to grab for your car’s winter emergency kit.

And it’s also important to know the warning signs of frostbite, which include pins and needles pain in your extremities. Plus a change in your skin’s color. If you feel like you’re getting frostbite, you want to warm up and keep the areas warm. (Don’t warm it up and then re-expose it because the tissue damage can be much worse.)

If you know the weather’s going to be especially cold or brutal, it’s best to avoid traveling ― if at all possible. But if you must be out and about, being prepared is key to staying safe. Weather can change in an instant and you don’t want to be caught without winter emergency gear.

Learn more about our editorial process.

Related Articles

Person shoveling snow
March 14, 2024/Wellness
Shoveling Snow? Tips To Prevent Back Injury or Pain

Stretch before heading outside, keep proper form and avoid jerking or twisting to throw snow

person examining flaky skin on face
March 7, 2024/Skin Care & Beauty
Do You Have a Winter Rash? Here’s How To Treat and Prevent It

A distressed skin barrier can lead to red, itchy and scaly skin

two kids eating snow outside
March 6, 2024/Nutrition
Is It Safe To Eat Snow?

If the flakes are undisturbed, pristine white and come from the top layer, it’s typically safe to indulge in a scoop

female on couch, holding mug, under blanket, blowing nose, cat on couch
January 22, 2024/Allergies
Why Are My Allergies Acting Up in Winter?

Indoor allergens know no season!

Close up of gloved hands holding hot drink, steaming mug, outside in the cold
January 17, 2024/Chronic Pain
10 Cold Weather Tips for Managing Raynaud’s During Winter

Use foot warmers and hand warmers, layer your clothing and avoid sharp shifts in temperature

Person running in winter landscape
December 27, 2023/Skin Care & Beauty
How To Deal With Eczema During Extreme Weather

Hot or cold, your eczema can have flare-ups during multiple times of the year

Friends laughing and spending time together outside in winter.
December 16, 2022/Mental Health
How the Norwegian Concept of Koselig Can Get You Through the Winter

Cozying up with friends and family can make cold, dark days more meaningful

Person blowing snow off of gloved hands while outside during cold winter weather.
December 14, 2022/Wellness
Braving the Elements: Tips To Stay Safe Outdoors This Winter

Bottom line? Dress warm, be careful and plan ahead to get the most out of the season

Trending Topics

Female and friend jogging outside
How To Increase Your Metabolism for Weight Loss

Focus on your body’s metabolic set point by eating healthy foods, making exercise a part of your routine and reducing stress

stovetop with stainless steel cookware and glassware
5 Ways Forever Chemicals (PFAS) May Affect Your Health

PFAS chemicals may make life easier — but they aren’t always so easy on the human body

jar of rice water and brush, with rice scattered around table
Could Rice Water Be the Secret To Healthier Hair?

While there’s little risk in trying this hair care treatment, there isn’t much science to back up the claims

Ad