Snow Day Car Kit for Short Trips
Original preparedness explainer · Reviewed as a draft October 29, 2026 · General U.S. guidance
A familiar commute can change when snow, ice or a closure leaves drivers unexpectedly waiting. Keep essentials appropriate to the season.
Include warm clothes, blanket, flashlight, water, shelf-stable snacks, a phone charger and any personal necessities. Watch road and weather alerts.
Avoid unnecessary travel during serious winter storm warnings. If stranded, follow local emergency-service instructions and account for exhaust pipe safety.
Watch official winter weather alerts; prepare warm layers, safe home heating, food and medication supplies. Carbon monoxide alarms and safe generator placement matter especially during outages.
Put this into action
Choose one manageable improvement today. Confirm current warnings and local instructions with your city/county emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.