Stranded in a Winter Storm
Being stuck in a car during a blizzard can become life-threatening from cold or carbon monoxide. The safest choice is usually to stay with your vehicle, stay warm, and keep the exhaust clear.
- All drivers
- Work drivers
Photo: car stuck in snow on a rural road with a bright cloth tied to the antenna and the tailpipe cleared of snow
If you get stuck
- Stay with your vehicle. It’s shelter and easier for rescuers to find. Don’t walk off in blowing snow unless help is clearly visible and close.
- Call 911 or roadside help and give your location; save phone battery after that.
- Make yourself visible: tie a bright cloth to the antenna or door, and turn on the dome light at night (briefly) or hazard lights.
- Keep the tailpipe clear of snow.
- Run the engine sparingly, about 10 minutes each hour for heat, with a window cracked slightly.
- Stay warm: use blankets, extra clothes and huddle together. Move arms and legs to keep blood flowing.
- Drink water and eat if you have food. Don’t eat snow without melting it; it lowers body temperature.
Carbon monoxide kills in stranded cars. A tailpipe buried in snow can fill the car with CO in minutes. Check and clear it before running the engine, every time. See Vehicle Carbon Monoxide.
Winter car kit
- Blankets or sleeping bag, hats, gloves and extra socks
- Water and high-energy snacks
- Flashlight, extra batteries, phone charger or power bank
- Ice scraper, small shovel, and sand or kitty litter for traction
- Jumper cables, flares or reflective triangles
- First aid kit and any needed medicines
- Bright cloth to signal for help
See Car Emergency Kit.
Before you go
- Check the forecast and road conditions; delay travel in storms if you can.
- Keep your gas tank at least half full in winter.
- Tell someone your route and when you expect to arrive.
See Winter Driving and Cold Stress.
Standards & references
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