Getting stranded in the snow isn’t just frustrating—it can be downright dangerous if you’re not prepared. Whether you’re on a winter road trip through the mountains or caught in an unexpected cold snap closer to home, knowing what to do can make all the difference. At our tow truck company, we’ve seen plenty of snow-related callouts, and while some could’ve been avoided, others were just bad luck. Either way, staying calm and taking the right steps can help keep you safe until help arrives.
Here’s a practical, no-stress guide on what to do if your car gets stuck in snow or leaves you stranded in freezing conditions.
Stay Put—If It’s Safe
Unless you’re just metres from a well-lit, open building, don’t leave your vehicle. It offers shelter and is much easier for rescuers to spot than a person walking alone in snowy conditions. Snow can quickly hide road signs, paths, and even landmarks, making it easy to get lost.
Your car is your best friend in this situation—stay with it unless you see immediate danger like a fuel leak or fire.
Turn on Your Hazard Lights
Visibility can drop fast during snowfall or a storm, so make yourself as noticeable as possible. Turn on your hazard lights—even in daylight. If you have roadside flares or reflectors, place them behind your vehicle (if it’s safe to get out) to help others spot you sooner.
Call for Help Right Away
Don’t wait. As soon as you realize you’re stuck or can’t move forward safely, call your roadside assistance provider, towing service, or emergency services if needed. Let them know your exact location, the direction you were headed, and what the road conditions are like.
If your phone signal is weak, try texting a family member or friend with your location—sometimes texts go through even when calls don’t.
Keep the Engine Running Safely
You’ll probably want to run the engine to stay warm—but be smart about it.
- Run the engine for about 10 minutes every hour. This conserves fuel while giving you bursts of warmth.
- Check the exhaust pipe. If it’s blocked by snow, clear it before running the engine. A blocked exhaust can cause deadly carbon monoxide to build up inside the car.
- Crack a window slightly. It helps with ventilation, especially if your vehicle is tightly sealed.
Pro tip: bundle up even inside the car to reduce the need to run the engine constantly.
Conserve Your Fuel
You don’t know how long you’ll be stuck, so stretch that fuel. Don’t blast the heat continuously—use it in intervals. If you have others in the car, take turns using warm clothing, blankets, or even shared body heat. Hey, in a snowstorm, every little bit helps.
Stay Warm Without Draining the Battery
Avoid using interior lights or accessories like the radio for long periods unless the engine is running. They can drain your battery faster than you’d expect.
Instead, use what you packed:
- Blankets
- Gloves
- Extra jackets
- Hand warmers (great to keep in your glovebox)
If you don’t have those now, make a note for next time. Even a cheap travel blanket and a pair of old winter boots in the boot can make a big difference.
Don’t Tire Yourself Out Digging
If you’re stuck in deep snow, your first instinct might be to grab a shovel or start digging with your hands. That’s fine—but don’t overdo it. Physical effort in cold weather burns energy fast and can increase your risk of hypothermia if you sweat and then cool down.
If you do try to dig out:
- Clear snow from around the tyres and under the car
- Sprinkle sand, cat litter, or floor mats under the wheels for traction
- Gently rock the car forward and back in low gear (don’t floor the accelerator)
And if none of that works, don’t keep spinning the tyres. You could dig yourself in deeper—or burn out your transmission.
Light Up the Night
If you’re stuck after dark and want to stay visible, turn on the interior light briefly when you hear or see a vehicle. Keep it off otherwise to preserve the battery. If you’re expecting help, flashing a torch or waving something bright out the window can also help them locate you quicker.
Feed Yourself—If You Can
If you packed snacks, now’s the time. High-energy foods like granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are perfect for situations like this. Don’t eat snow—it lowers your body temperature. If you’re thirsty, melt the snow first by putting it in a container inside the car.
Keep a Positive Headspace
It’s easier said than done, but staying mentally calm matters. Panicking burns energy and makes it harder to think clearly. Remind yourself: help is on the way, your car provides shelter, and you’ve got a plan.
If you’re travelling with kids or pets, your calm energy helps them stay calm too.
Winter driving can be unpredictable, and even the best-prepared driver can find themselves stuck. But knowing what to do—and what not to do—can keep you safe and make the wait a whole lot less stressful.
And if you’re ever in that situation, we’re just a call away. Snow, ice, mud—we’ve got the gear (and the patience) to get you back on the road when Mother Nature has other ideas.
If you are in Coolaroo, and looking for a nearby towing service, this is the best way to visit us.
Reservoir Towing
58 Anstey Ave, Reservoir VIC 3073
(03) 7046 4990
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