“ASK A TROOPER” by Sgt. Troy Christianson of the Minnesota State Patrol

Question:  I hear a lot of things out there for “Winter Survival Kits”; could I get your opinion Sgt. Christianson?

Answer:  This is a great question and yes there is a lot of information and opinions on what to have in your “winter survival kit”.  Being born and raised here and based on my training and experience with almost 15 years on the State Patrol and working some of the hardest hit areas when it comes to winter weather in our great state.   This is what I would recommend.  It’s not a matter of “if” and “when”, but “when” and “then”.  It’s not about being paranoid; it’s “BEING PREPARED”!

Assemble winter survival kits for all of your vehicles. Keep them inside the vehicle where they will be readily accessible and secure. The kit should include:

• Three-pound coffee can or any similar container with a plastic cover, candle stubs and matches and a lighter which can be used to melt snow for additional drinking water
• Metal or plastic cup, a small sharp knife and plastic spoons
• Red bandanna and a plastic whistle to alert rescuers to your location
• Pencil and paper (to leave information in the vehicle on when you left and where you are going)
• First aid kit, including any essential medications
• Plastic flashlight with spare batteries (reverse the batteries to avoid accidental switching and burnout, and replace batteries yearly)
• Two large plastic garbage bags, safety pins (bags are for insulation for feet, safety pins keep the bags together)
• Snack foods for energy, such as candy bars.  Even canned soup, meat or poultry
• Cell phone adapter to plug into lighter

Other important suggested items:

• Extra sets of stocking hats, gloves, mittens, boots, socks, and snowmobile suit
• Sleeping bag and blankets
• Road Flares and reflectors
• Tow cables or chain
• Shovel
• Booster cables
• Basic Tools
• 30-feet cord/rope to use as a homing line when you must exit vehicle

I believe these listed items are essential and there are many more a person could add, but this is a start.  All too often I see people end up in the ditch and are extremely unprepared.  I feel another important tip is to “Keep Calm and Think”.  The storm will end and you will be found.

If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws in Minnesota, please email your questions to:  Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us