What to Do if You Get Stranded This Winter

Winter weather poses many hazards, including the potential for getting stuck in the snow. If you’re stranded in your vehicle, don’t panic. With a well-stocked emergency kit, you’ll have everything you need to stay safe and comfortable until you can get moving again. Use these tips to make this unpleasant but sometimes unavoidable situation a little easier.

Signal That You’re in Trouble

Let others know you’re stranded, so you can get help as soon as possible. If you have a working cell phone, contact 911 or other emergency personnel immediately. If you’re facing a serious winter storm, it may take some time for someone to reach you.

Make your car easier to find by tying a bright flag or piece of cloth to the antenna or hanging it out the window. If it’s not snowing, you can also raise your car hood to signal that you’re in distress. Road flares and cones are included in many emergency kits, and will help you further distinguish your area.

Protect Against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

If your car gets stuck this winter, the first thing you should do is check to make sure the tailpipe is clear. It should be completely free of snow and ice. If it is blocked, you could get carbon monoxide poisoning from sitting in the car while it’s running. If the tailpipe is clear, you can run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour to help stave off the cold. Check the tailpipe again after each session to ensure it’s still safely open.

Avoid Collisions

If your car veers off the road in a busy area, it’s important to do all you can to minimize the chances of a collision with other cars. If you can, push your car further away from the road so others hitting the same icy patch or rounding a blind corner won’t hit you. If your car is in extreme danger of a collision, abandon the vehicle. Otherwise, stay in the car with your seatbelt on.

Stay Warm

Overcoming the cold is the biggest challenge when you’re stranded in winter. Make a point of moving each part of your body as much as possible while inside the car to keep your blood flowing and stay warm. You car’s winter survival kit should include spare gloves, socks, scarves, and hats so you can bundle up. You should also have a sleeping bag or at least an emergency blanket on hand. Cozy up to others in the vehicle to share warmth.

Keep Everyone Hydrated

Your body will have an easier time maintaining heat if it’s properly hydrated. Your survival kit should include bottled water, but in the event of a winter storm, you will probably find that you have access to plenty of snow as well. If necessary, collect snow in a tin can and melt it before drinking. Eating unmelted snow will lower your body temperature unnecessarily and increase your risk for hypothermia.

Keep your car stocked with high-energy snacks, bottled water, flashlights, candles, batteries, and warm clothing. A little preparation combined with prompt action in an emergency can help to ensure a quick and favorable outcome.