What to Keep in Your Car in Winter (the Emergency Kit)
A breakdown in July is annoying. A breakdown at -25 °C on the side of the highway is dangerous. Quebec winter tests vehicles AND drivers. A small kit in the trunk can make all the difference while you wait for the tow truck.
The Winter Emergency Kit
🧊 Keep in the trunk
Scraper + snow brush · Jumper cables or booster · Folding shovel · Bag of sand or cat litter (traction) · Warm blanket · Flashlight + batteries · Spare boots and mittens · Granola bars + water · Phone charger · Flares or a warning triangle
Before Winter, Get Checked
The kit is for surprises. But the best emergency is the one you avoid. Before the cold season, have your battery tested (cold tests it hard), install your winter tires on time, and add winter washer fluid (-40).
What to Do in a Breakdown
- Stay in the car if you're on the highway: it's safer.
- Keep a window slightly open if you run the engine for heat (carbon monoxide).
- Make sure the exhaust pipe isn't blocked by snow.
- Make yourself visible: hazard lights, triangle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why sand or cat litter?
To give traction under the wheels if you're stuck in snow or ice.
Can I leave water bottles in winter?
They'll freeze. Keep granola bars and a little water that you replace regularly.
When should I replace the battery before winter?
Have it tested in the fall. A weak battery often survives summer but dies at the first deep cold.
Ready for winter?
Garage Path57 — 7971 15e Ave, Saint-Michel, Montreal, QC H1Z 3N5
Book your winter prep (battery, tires, fluids).
Garage Path57 · 7971 15e Avenue, Montréal (QC) H1Z 3N5 · (514) 433-7479