5 Items All Minnesota Drivers Must Have In Their Car

MINNEAPOLIS — If you plan on doing any driving this week, or really anytime this winter, there are a few items that absolutely must be in your car.

Minnesota drivers who head out on the roads this week will be facing "life-threatening conditions," the National Weather Service warned. Snow, extremely cold temperatures, and blizzard-causing winds could make travel impossible at times.

In the event of a crash, a spin-out, or a breakdown, drivers can get stranded for hours in extreme cold.

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The Minnesota Department of Public Safety recommends that drivers store safety items in the passenger compartment because the trunk can become jammed or frozen shut after a crash.

These five items are a must:

• Booster cables
• Sand or cat litter, to create wheel traction
• Shovel
• Tow cables or chain
• Sleeping bag and/or blankets

If you can, fit these items in your vehicle as well:

• Candles and matches
• Flashlight, extra batteries
• Snowmobile suit, snow boots
• Road flares or reflectors
• Non-perishable food

Check out winter driving tips here.

Also read: NWS Warns Of 'Life-Threatening' Snowstorm: MN Weather