Office of Emergency Management
What to do if stranded in vehicle during a blizzard
Before you start out on any winter trip, it is always smart to check the travel conditions for the location you are traveling. If there are closed roads because of severe winter weather, obey the law and do not attempt to travel on closed highways. If you are stranded in a blizzard, stay in your vehicle. Disorientation and hypothermia occurs quickly in blowing and drifting snow. You are more likely to be found in your vehicle, and it will provide the best possible shelter. If you do get stranded, there are some common sense recommendations:1) Do not panic.
2) Stay in your vehicle.
3) Use supplies conservatively from your vehicle supplies kit.
4) If you are stuck during the day place an orange or red flag on your antenna. At night leave your dome light on, only while the car is running.
5) Remember to occasionally check your tailpipe to make sure it is free of snow. Clean the pipe to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning when the engine is running.
6) If there is more than one person in the car, take turns sleeping. If you are alone in the car, do not sleep while the engine is running.
7) Do some minor exercising in the vehicle to keep up circulation.
8) If you have a cellular phone, call for assistance and provide authorities with your location. Do not run down the battery!
9) When the snow has stopped. Try stamping a big "HELP" signal in the snow beside your vehicle.