If the first step does not result in the desired outcome, you can next turn to using traction to help get your vehicle moving again. Since traction works to overcome the constant spinning of the wheels, yet minus any actual acceleration, this process can add some more traction to allow movement as well.

This is where the kitty litter comes in. Here you can put kitty litter (or sand or salt) under the tires to give them something to cling to and help encourage movement of the vehicle. With any luck at this point, you have been able to get back in the car, hit the gas and free yourself from this unwanted predicament.

In the event, these first two attempts do not help you to get your vehicle back safety out on the road, you also need to keep yourself safe, as this should be a top consideration throughout this entire process. If you find yourself unable to get out from the snowy conditions, it is recommended that you remain inside your vehicle and do everything you can to keep yourself safe until help arrives.

It is of course critical, that you have first contact someone for help. Therefore, make sure you have your cell phone and it is fully charged. After contacting the appropriate individuals for assistance, such as family, friends, and/or Emergency Services, you should remain in your vehicle to keep as warm as possible. Again remember to be aware of your surroundings and do what you can to attract the attention of those who are able to come and help.

Since you won’t be able to have the car on the entire time, it is however important to have the engine on for various intervals of time. While you want to stay as warm as you can, you also do not want to deal with breathing in carbon monoxide. In this case, the best way to stay safe can be to balance this out by keeping a window cracked for some of the time, and also turning the car off intermittently in order to heat it for as long as possible. You can also keep yourself warmer by putting on the additional winter clothing you have in your vehicle as you wait for help to arrive.

You have already called for help, now you can do what you can to attract attention to your location and make it easier to be found.

Some methods of signalling others is to have your 4-way flashes on and to also consider tying a bright piece of clothing near the top of the car to act as a beacon for those passing by.  The flashlight you have in your kit can also come in handy here as it can be used to literally shine a light on where you are located. Whatever you can do to draw attention to yourself, while also remaining safe, is the best way to ensure you can get out of these dire circumstances as soon as possible.

Finally, do your best to stay as calm as you possibly can. You have taken the above steps to keep yourself safe and warm and to alert others to your location, now is a good time to try not to panic. Since panicking goes against our efforts to think rationally and in turn act safely, you can instead help yourself immensely during this situation by remembering to breathe and to remain as relaxed as you can.