Keep a phone charger, blankets, a flashlight, first aid kit, high-calorie food, extra dry clothing, a shovel and sand or cat litter in your car, and keep the gas tank near full.
The kit
The NWS list for vehicles: a mobile phone, charger and batteries; blankets or sleeping bags; a flashlight with extra batteries; a first aid kit; a knife; high-calorie, non-perishable food; extra dry clothing; a large empty can for use as a toilet, plus tissues, toilet paper and paper towels; a small can and waterproof matches for melting snow; sand or cat litter for traction; a shovel; a windshield scraper and brush; a tool kit; a tow rope; battery booster cables; a water container; a candle and matches; and a compass and paper road maps.
Prepare the vehicle
Fully check and winterize your vehicle before winter begins. Confirm fluid levels are full and that the lights, heater and windshield wipers work properly. Keep the gas tank near full to prevent ice in the tank and fuel lines.
Before you travel
Avoid traveling alone, and share your timetable and your primary and alternate routes. Check 511 for traffic, road conditions and restrictions before you leave. Drive slowly in snow, and treat near-freezing roads as icy.
At home or work
The NWS also lists supplies for home or work, including a flashlight with extra batteries, a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio, non-perishable food and water that need no cooking or refrigeration, extra prescription medication, first aid supplies, heating fuel refilled before it runs low, a properly ventilated emergency heat source, a fire extinguisher and smoke alarm, and a working carbon monoxide detector with its outside vent kept clear of snow.
Check your own location
See current official alerts and the impact for your ZIP code.
Sources
Reviewed by the Storm Incoming editorial team on October 26, 2026. Follow local emergency officials if their instructions differ.