Emergencies can happen to anyone...

In the beginning of January, hundreds of drivers were stranded by a snowstorm on Interstate 95 in Virginia. After more than 24 shivering hours of watching gas gauges drop, rationing food and water they were finally freed.

A 40-mile stretch of the highway — one of the busiest travel corridors in the United States — came to a standstill overnight after a fast-falling snowstorm led to jackknifed tractor-trailers and hundreds of other accidents. Some people abandoned their cars.

Before starting a trip, ensure you have a full tank of gas and fresh antifreeze.

In addition to the items listed below, keeping a cell phone on hand is highly advised. Make sure your phone is charged every time you get in the car and keep a spare cell phone charger and a rechargeable battery pack in your emergency kit as well.

Prepare for the worst-case scenario by keeping the following supplies in your winter car kit!

* Blankets, mittens, socks, and hats
* Ice scraper and snow brush
* Flashlight, plus extra batteries (or a hand-crank flashlight)
* Jumper cables
* First-aid kit (band-aides, adhesive tape, gauze pads, antiseptic cream, medical wrap).
* Multi-tool (such as a Leatherman multi-tool or a Swiss Army knife)
* Road flares or reflective warning triangles
* Windshield cleaner
* A bag of sand to help with traction (or bag of non-clumping cat litter)
* Collapsible or folding snow shovel
* Tire chains and tow strap
* Hand warmers
* Winter boots for longer trips
* Sleeping bag for longer trips
* Rags and hand cleaner (such as baby wipes)
* Duct tape
* Rain poncho
* Nonperishable high-energy foods (unsalted and canned nuts, granola bars, raisins, dried fruit)
* Lighter and box of matches (in a waterproof container)
* Scissors and string or cord
* Spare change and cash
* Compass
* Paper maps

Hopefully you will never need it but it's always better to be prepared...