Winter weather puts drivers at an increased risk of being in an accident or becoming stranded. Emergencies can happen to anyone. Whether you slip off a snowy road or fall victim to a dead battery, a car emergency kit can get you back on route quickly and safely.

Car Emergency Kit List

You can create a DIY Emergency kit or simply purchase a pre-packaged kit. Either way, we recommend storing this kit in a waterproof bag inside your trunk.

Vital Supplies:

• Jumper cables
• Flashlight with extra batteries, or a hand-crank flashlight
• First-Aid kit including band-aids, adhesive tape, gauze, antiseptic gel, medical wrap, etc.
• Multi-tool (Swiss Army Knife or Leatherman Tool)
• Road Flares or reflective warning triangles
• Cell phone charger
• Bottled Water

Winter Essentials:

• Blankets, gloves and hats
• Ice scraper
• Folding/collapsible snow shovel
• A bag of sand or kitty litter to help your vehicle gain traction in snow
• Hand warmers
• Winter boots
• Sleeping bag

Optional Additions:

• Small fire extinguisher (5-lb., Class B or Class C type) in case of a car fire
• Tire gauge
• Jack and lug wrench for a flat tire
• Gloves, rags and hand cleaners
• Fix-A-Flat for minor tire punctures
• Battery operated radio
• Lighter and box of matches
• Rain poncho
• Nonperishable foods

We strongly advise traveling with a cell phone through inclement weather in case of an emergency - only use your device when the vehicle is stopped and it is safe to do so!

Ask your local Rockford Mutual Insurance Agent about our Roadside Assistance Program that will send help to your vehicle if it breaks down unexpectedly this winter!