A sudden squall on the 401, a car that won’t start in a parking lot, or a slide into a snowy ditch on a back road. Winter in Ontario can catch anyone off guard. A small emergency kit in your trunk can turn a scary situation into an annoying one. Here’s what to pack.
The basics
- Snow brush and ice scraper
- Small folding shovel
- Sand, kitty litter or traction mats to help you get unstuck
- Booster cables or a portable jump starter
- Extra windshield washer fluid rated for -40°C
- Flashlight with spare batteries, or a wind-up light
- Phone charging cable and a charged power bank
Stay warm and safe
- Warm blanket or sleeping bag
- Extra hat, gloves, socks and boots
- Hand warmers
- Bottled water and non-perishable snacks like granola bars
- Basic first aid kit
- Warning triangles or road flares, and a reflective vest
Car-specific items
- A tire pressure gauge. Cold weather drops tire pressure. See why your TPMS light comes on in the cold.
- A working spare tire and jack, or a tire inflator kit. Check your spare’s pressure now, not when you need it. Here’s spare tire 101.
- A tow strap
If you get stuck or stranded
- Stay with your car unless help is very close and you can see it. Your car is shelter and is easier for rescuers to spot.
- Clear the exhaust pipe of snow before running the engine. A blocked exhaust can fill the car with carbon monoxide.
- Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour for heat, with a window open a crack.
- Turn on your hazard lights and call for help. Call 911 if you’re in danger.
- Don’t spin your wheels trying to get out. Rock gently back and forth and use sand or mats under the drive wheels.
The best kit is a car that’s ready
Good winter tires, strong brakes and a healthy battery prevent most winter headaches. Read how to get your car ready for winter, signs your battery is dying, and when to put on winter tires.
President Tire & Wheels is at 632 Colby Drive, Waterloo, serving Waterloo, Kitchener and Cambridge. Book your seasonal tire swap or call (226) 698-1667.
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