As the winter stretches out in front of us it’s a good idea to check your winter car emergency kit and make sure it’s well stocked in case any winter car emergency comes your way.

We here at CarLocate.com have put together a list of the must haves for your winter car emergency kit.

- Blankets and warm clothing – such as parkas, long underwear, heavy socks, and mittens
- A source of heat- such as candles; make sure to pack a pack of matches as some lighters do not work in extreme cold
- A radio and flashlight with extra batteries
- Water and a metal container that will work to melt ice or snow to be used for drinking water
- Food – something that won’t spoil such as nuts, candy bars, dehydrated fruit, and jerky
- Something to read to keep you awake
- Bright red or orange cloth or flares or reflective triangle and whistle to signal help
- A fully charged cell phone

In case of an emergency and you are stranded there are few tips to keep in mind:

- Stay with your vehicle and run the engine sparingly – start with 15 minutes every hour and adjust as needed
- Keep the exhaust pipe clear of snow
- Keep your feet off the floor if the heater is not on
- NEVER go to sleep with engine running
- Position car so it faces into the wind
- Tie a color banner on the car antenna.  If you need to leave the car for any distance tie a rope to the car and yourself so you will be able to find your way back to the car
- Move all your emergency supplies from the trunk to the interior of the car as soon as you realize you will be staying for awhile.  Put on warm clothing before you get too cold, it is easier to stay warm then it is to regain lost warmth.