Winter in the Midwest is no place to be without a winter survival kit in your vehicle.

When I was a young child, I made winter survival kits for my older siblings out of a coffee can. A modern version that is easy to assemble includes these items:

• 3 pound coffee can (punch 3 holes at the top of can equal distance apart)
• 60-inch length of twine or heavy string (cut into 3 equal pieces – used to suspend can)
• 3 large safety pins (tie string to safety pins; pin to car roof interior to suspend can over candle)
• 1 candle 2″ diameter (place on lid under suspended can for melting snow)
• 1 pocketknife or small scissors, reasonably sharp
• 3 pieces of bright cloth 2″ wide x 36″ long or red bandanna (tie to antenna or door handle)
• Several packets of soup, hot chocolate, tea, bouillon cubes, etc. (mixed into melted snow to provide warmth and nutrition)
• 1 small package of peanuts (provides protein) & fruit-flavored candy (orange slices, jelly beans, etc.- avoid adding anything with chocolate)
• Chewing gum
• Raisins in small packets
• Wrapped hard candies
• 1 pair of athletic socks (cotton) and 1 pair of glove liners (cotton)
• 2 book matches
• 1 sun shield blanket or 2 large green or black plastic leaf bags (to reflect body heat)
• 1 pen light or small plastic flashlight and spare batteries (keep separate)
• Band-aids
• Aspirin
• Cell phone adapter to plug into the lighter (if your car has a lighter)
• Pencil and paper
• Small knife and plastic spoons
• Whistle

When you have it all put together, place a stocking hat over the can. Carry it in the main area of the vehicle. Keep it handy in the main area of the vehicle. It will be useful if the trunk is jammed. It will also be useful if the trunk is frozen shut.

[Tip:  Reverse batteries in the flashlight to avoid accidental switching and burnout. Warm batteries before using them.]

If you ever find yourself needing to use the winter survival kit, stay in your vehicle. Wait there until help arrives! Hypothermia is a serious concern when stranded in winter weather.

Please check 511 or your state’s road conditions website before heading out during the winter months. Stay safe!

~ Gram

[References: https://www.ricecountymn.gov/627/Making-a-Winter-Driving-Survival-Kit%5D