You're driving to see the grandkids. The snow starts heavier than the forecast said.

An hour later, the highway is closed. You're in a line of cars that hasn't moved in forty minutes. It's getting dark, the temperature is dropping, and you've got half a tank.

What you have in the car right now is what you've got for the night.

Stay with your car. It's your shelter, and it's a lot easier for rescuers to find than a person on foot. Don't walk off into a storm unless help is close and you can see it.

Run the engine about ten minutes every hour for heat. Crack a window on the side away from the wind. And keep the tailpipe clear of snow. If it's blocked, carbon monoxide can fill the car without you knowing.

When the engine's running, turn on the inside light so you can be seen. Tie something bright to the antenna or a door handle. Keep moving your arms and legs to stay warm.

Blankets, or an old sleeping bag. A warm hat and gloves. A flashlight with spare batteries, and a charging cable that works in the car.

Water and snacks that won't spoil. A first aid kit. Jumper cables, a small shovel and an ice scraper. A bag of sand or kitty litter, for traction when you're stuck.

Something bright to signal with. And a paper map, because your phone won't always have a signal.

They run on empty.

In winter, keep the tank at least half full. More gas means more hours of heat if you're stuck. And when trouble hits, gas stations close or the lines stretch around the block.

The other mistake is not telling anybody where you're going.

Two things. Twenty minutes.

First, start your trunk kit. A blanket, a few bottles of water, some snacks and a phone charger. That alone puts you ahead of most folks on the road.

Second, before any long winter drive, tell somebody. Your route, and when you expect to get there. If you don't show up, they'll know where to send help.

Got a question, or a lesson from your own life? Hit reply. I read every one.

See you next time.

— Cole