With the first blast of winter effecting North Dakota, it is time once again to think about the winter safety survival kit for your car or truck.

Rob Carr / Getty Images
Rob Carr / Getty Images
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The winters can be cold and even deadly if you get stranded in your automobile during the winter months in North Dakota. It is always a good idea to check your survival kit and make sure you are safe, warm and ready if you should get stuck in the snow or breakdown and you need to stay safe until help arrives.

Here are some items you should have to stay safe and alive-

  • a shovel
  • windshield scraper and small broom
  • flashlight with extra batteries
  • battery powered radio
  • water
  • snack food including energy bars
  • raisins and mini candy bars
  • matches and small candles
  • extra hats, socks and mittens
  • First aid kit with pocket knife
  • Necessary medications
  • blankets or sleeping bag
  • tow chain or rope
  • road salt, sand, or cat litter for traction
  • booster cables
  • emergency flares and reflectors
  • fluorescent distress flag and whistle to attract attention
  • Cell phone adapter to plug into lighter
  • extra cell phone battery

It is always good to tell someone where you are going and the route you plan to take plus the estimated time of arrival.

If you should break down, stay in your vehicle: Walking in a storm can be very dangerous. You might become lost or exhausted. Your vehicle is a good shelter from the elements plus, if stranded, keep your dome light on.

Snow can plug your vehicle's exhaust system and cause deadly carbon monoxide gas to enter your car. Only run the engine for 10 minutes an hour and make sure the exhaust pipe is free of snow. Keeping a window open a crack while running the engine is also a good idea.

Survival does not mean you're comfortable, but it will mean you're alive, expect to be cold.

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