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Know Before You Go: What you should have in your car for winter

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GRAND RAPIDS, Mich — With snow and cold temps in the forecast, it's always a good time to make sure you have the proper items in your vehicle in case you run into some trouble on the road.

During the 2022-2023 winter season, there were 30,786 winter-weather crashes in Michigan, so it pays to be prepared. We've already seen big backups after last week's crash involving 15 vehicles on US-131, or Monday's crash involving 17 vehicles on I-94.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administrationsuggests keeping supplies handy in your car or truck like:

  • Snow shovel
  • Ice scraper
  • Abrasive material (like sand or kitty litter) - this can help your vehicle get traction if stuck in the snow
  • A first aid kit, including a tourniquet
  • Blankets
  • Heavy coat
  • Hat and gloves
  • Roadside emergency kit (jumper cables, emergency flares, reflective vest, etc.)
  • Food & water
  • Cell phone charger

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