Winters in our part of the country while driving on the highways can get a little problematic at times, especially if a natural disaster hits the region. Environment Canada meteorologist Natalie Hasell says you should have an emergency kit for your vehicle if such an event occurs. She outlines items you need to collect.

"You want food that won't spoil, such as energy bars, water, and plastic bottles so they won't break if they're frozen. But remember the plastic actually has an expiry date. The water doesn't, but the plastic does. Swap that out every six months. Also, have a blanket, extra clothing or shoes, a first-aid kit, and a seat-belt cutter."

Hasell adds a small shovel, scraper, tow rope, windshield washer fluid, jumper cables, and a warning light or road flares should also be included.

Also ensure you have extra antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, a tow rope, jumper cables, a fire extinguisher, and a warning light or set of road flares.

She explains most people already have these things in their cars, but you might have taken them out of your vehicle during the summer to make space for camping equipment. So, now's the time to make the effort and look over what you have in the car for what you might need to complete your emergency kit.

See the Government of Canada's website checklist: https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/cnt/kts/cr-kt-en.aspx

The Canadian Red Cross also has a website where you can purchase a car kit:

https://products.redcross.ca/category/3/emergency-preparedness