Guide · Shelter

Using a car as shelter

If you are stranded in a car in snow or a storm, staying with the car is usually the safest choice. It keeps you out of the wind and is much easier for rescuers to spot than a person on foot.

First steps

Pull over somewhere safe if you can, away from bends and the brow of hills.
Turn on your hazard lights.
Call your local emergency number (112 in Europe and many other countries, 911 in North America) and tell them where you are, or call a breakdown service.
Stay inside unless the car is in danger, such as from traffic, fire or rising water.

Staying warm

Run the engine for about 10 minutes each hour for heat, not continuously.
Before running the engine, clear snow away from the exhaust pipe. A blocked exhaust can fill the car with carbon monoxide.
Open a window slightly on the side away from the wind while the engine runs.
Put on all spare clothing. Cover yourself with blankets, coats, floor mats or seat covers.
Huddle together with other passengers.
Move your arms and legs regularly to keep blood flowing.

Being found

Tie something bright to the aerial or a window.
Keep the roof light on for short periods at night, if your battery allows.
Clear snow off the roof and windows during the day so the car is visible.
Save your phone battery: turn it to low power and check for signal every half hour.

Things to keep in the car

A blanket or sleeping bag, warm hat and gloves.
Water and snacks.
A torch, phone charger, small shovel and an ice scraper.
A first aid kit and something bright for signalling.

When not to stay in the car

Floods: never drive into flood water. As little as 30 cm of moving water can float a car. If water is rising around you, get out and move to higher ground.
Fire or fuel leaks: get well away from the vehicle.
Heat: a parked car in the sun becomes dangerously hot within minutes. Find shade outside instead, and never leave children or pets inside.
On a busy road: stand behind a barrier, well away from traffic.

Leaving on foot

Only walk for help if you can see somewhere safe close by, visibility is good and you are dressed for the weather. Leave a note in the car saying where you went and when.

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