When winter roadside emergencies strike, you want to be prepared. While you may already have jumper cables, a spare tire, and a tire iron in your trunk, there are a few other essentials you should keep in the vehicle. Use this guide to prepare for winter car emergencies so you can get back on the road.

Kitty Litter

Kitty litter comes in handy for a number of reasons. It can be used to create traction on ice, which can help you to get out of a slick and snowy area. Pour the litter around the tires, particularly around the rear tires, to get your car rolling from a stopped position. It can also provide extra weight over your rear wheels, which can help to keep your car steady on icy roads and prevent fishtailing. Be sure to choose traditional litter and not lightweight litter. as lightweight litter won't provide the added weight you want for your vehicle.

Shovel

Whether you get snowed in and can't move your car, or you get stuck in a snowy ditch, a shovel is just the thing to dig your car out. Keep the shovel in the trunk with your ice scraper so it can be easily accessed. A small shovel is ideal, as it takes up little space, and it can also be used to dig snow out of tight spaces.

Power Bank

Having your phone ready for use during an emergency is important, and having a spare power bank can give your phone the charge it needs even if your car battery is dead. Keep a power bank in the glove box or trunk, and check it regularly to make sure it is fully charged and ready to power up your phone. With a charged phone, you can contact friends or family to let them know where you are and contact your local tow truck for help.

Reflective Vest

It can be difficult for other motorists to see you on the side of the road, particularly at night or during a driving snow storm. If you need to leave your vehicle to shovel snow or perform other repairs, wear a reflective vest to help make you more visible to oncoming cars. You can purchase one of these vests at your local hardware store or online. Be sure to pick a size that's larger than you might normally wear so it fits easily over your winter coat.

Tow Straps

During severe storms, tow truck companies may be overbooked with motorist calls for help. Consider keeping a set of tow straps in your trunk in case of an emergency. The straps can be used by friends or family who come to help or a friendly motorist stopping to help you get out of a ditch during a strong winter storm.

Keep the number of your local tow truck company and the contact information for any roadside assistance plan you have stored in your phone. Use these tips to prepare your car for the winter so you can be ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store for you. For more information, contact a company like John's Wrecker Service.