The short answer
If a blizzard traps you, ReadyWisconsin says: pull off the highway, turn on your hazard lights and hang a bright cloth from the antenna or window, and stay in the vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you. Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour, crack a downwind window while it runs, and clear snow from the exhaust pipe to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Before winter, ReadyWisconsin recommends keeping at least half a tank of fuel, making sure the exhaust pipe is clear, carrying a vehicle emergency kit, leaving with a charged phone, and telling someone your route.
If you're stuck: ReadyWisconsin's steps
- Pull off the highway and turn on hazard lights. Hang a bright-colored cloth, preferably red, from the antenna or window.
- Stay in the vehicle. You can become disoriented in blowing and drifting snow.
- Run the engine and heater about 10 minutes each hour. Open a downwind window slightly while it runs and clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
- Move arms and legs to keep warm, but avoid overexertion. Use floor mats, seat covers and coats for insulation.
- Take turns sleeping; one person should stay awake to watch for rescuers.
- Drink fluids. Balance battery use between lights, heat and radio.
- Turn on the dome light at night so crews can see you.
- Leave on foot only if necessary, after the blizzard passes.
Set the vehicle up before the season
| ReadyWisconsin says | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Keep at least half a tank of gas | Fuel to run the heater in short bursts, and less risk of running out in a closure |
| Make sure the exhaust pipe is clear | A blocked exhaust can push carbon monoxide into the cabin |
| Have a vehicle emergency kit | Blankets, scraper, shovel and traction aid; see our winter prep guide |
| Check battery, antifreeze, wipers, lights, heater/defroster, brakes, oil | The systems you depend on while you wait |
| Install good winter tires with adequate tread | Getting stuck less often in the first place |
| Leave with a charged phone; tell someone your route | So someone knows where to look |
Before you go: road conditions
WisDOT's 511 Wisconsin shows road conditions and closures. If the forecast is bad, ReadyWisconsin's advice is to drive only if it is absolutely necessary.
Winter checks at Swant Graber
We'll check the battery, cooling system, wipers, lights and tires before the season. Swant Graber Motors (Chevrolet, Ram, Dodge), 1690 E Division Ave, Barron, 715-537-5657; Swant Graber Ford, 1697 E Division Ave, Barron, 715-537-9500. Service hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. (no Saturday service).
Questions
Should I stay in my car if I'm stuck in a snowstorm?
Yes, according to ReadyWisconsin: remain in the vehicle, where rescuers are most likely to find you, unless you must leave after the storm passes.
How long should I run the engine while stranded?
About 10 minutes each hour, per ReadyWisconsin, with a downwind window cracked and the exhaust pipe kept clear of snow.
How much gas should I keep in winter?
ReadyWisconsin recommends keeping at least half a tank at all times.
Next steps at Swant Graber
Swant Graber Motors (Chevrolet, Ram, Dodge): 1690 E Division Ave, Barron, WI 54812, 715-537-5657. Swant Graber Ford: 1697 E Division Ave, 715-537-9500. Search new or used inventory, or see shop near you for model-by-model answers.
