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What to Do in a Winter Emergency
If You're Stuck at Home
Whether you are trapped at home during a snowstorm, or the roads are impassable due to ice, there are a few things you can do to help you stay safe.
Stay Inside and Avoid TravelingWhen a winter emergency hits, it's best to stay put in a safe spot. Limiting your driving keeps the roads open for emergency vehicles. Venturing out on the roads increases your risk of getting in an accident or getting stuck in the snow, which could require essential community resources to help you. Instead, consider making the most of what you have at home.
Conserve HeatIf the power goes out and you don't have a backup heat source, it's important to conserve the heat in your home. Here are some practical tips for conserving heat:
Close all doors to unused rooms to keep the heat concentrated.
Consider using draft stoppers or towels to block gaps under doors.
Use heavy curtains or blankets to cover windows and minimize heat loss.
Layer up with warm clothing and stay bundled in blankets.
Stay hydrated with non-caffeinated and non-alcoholic drinks, as cold air can dehydrate you. If you run out of water and have snow available, melt it first before drinking. Eating snow can lower your body temperature, risking hypothermia.
If you need to use a secondary heat source, it’s important to be cautious. Avoid using a generator, propane or gas heater or camp stove indoors. These can emit carbon monoxide, a harmful gas to both people and pets.
Let faucets drip slightly to keep water flowing to prevent pipes from freezing when temperatures drop. You can also open cabinets with plumbing to allow house heat to reach the pipes more effectively.
If You're Stranded in a Vehicle
If your vehicle becomes disabled during a winter storm, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself. Firstly, try to move your car off the road to a secure spot if you can. Use flares, safety triangles, or tie a bright cloth to your car to alert other drivers of your location.
If your car is drivable but stuck in snow or ice, try using gravel, kitty litter, or tree branches to boost traction and help gain some forward momentum.
Call for Help and Notify Someone of Your LocationIf you are in danger or someone is injured, call 911 and provide your location. Calling roadside assistance is another alternative if you need help but are not in immediate danger. Update family or friends with your location so that someone knows your situation in case your cellphone dies.
Stay in your car with your seatbelt fastened if possible. This will protect you if you are hit from behind by another vehicle. You will be easier to find if you stay with your vehicle, and the car will provide a warmer space for you to wait for rescue.
Keeping WarmStuck in a snowbank? Here are some friendly tips to keep you safe and warm:
Check the Tailpipe: Before turning on the engine, ensure your tailpipe is clear of snow. A blocked pipe can lead to carbon monoxide entering your vehicle, which is dangerous.
Conserve Fuel: Run your car's heater for 10 minutes every hour to stay warm while saving gas.
Layer Up: Wear any extra clothing you have, and keep your hands and feet bundled. Move around to boost circulation.
Stay Hydrated: Remember to eat and drink. Avoid eating snow as it lowers your core temperature. If needed, melt snow for water.
Signal for Help: Once the snow stops, raise your vehicle's hood to indicate you need assistance.
By following these steps, you can stay safe and comfortable until help arrives.
This information is being provided for general informational purposes only. The Auto Club Group does not assume any liability in connection with providing this information.
