16 Things Minnesotans Should Have in Their Car Right Now

If you're smart you'll spend a few minutes today making sure your car has all of these items.

We hope you never get stranded in subzero temps but the possibility of that happening exists each winter in Minnesota. Having an emergency kit in your car could save your life. Sgt. Troy Christianson says the Minnesota State Patrol recommends that you should have the following items in your vehicle during winter:

1:   Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats

2:   Snow shovel

3:   Flashlight with extra batteries

4:   Window washer solvent

5:   Ice scraper with brush

6:   Cloth or roll of paper towels

7:   Jumper cables

8:   Tow chain or rope

9:   Extra warm clothing (gloves, hats, scarves)

10:   Blankets

11:   Warning devices (flares or triangles)

12:  Drinking water

13:  Non-perishable snacks for both human and pet passengers

14:  First-aid kit

15: Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)

16:  Mobile phone and car charger per-programmed with rescue apps and important phone numbers including family and emergency services

If stranded, stay in the vehicle and call 911. At night, keep your dome light on and activate the vehicle’s emergency flashers.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester  MN 55901-5848. or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us.