(NATIONAL) — When temperatures are at their coldest, one of the biggest fears drivers have is getting stuck in their cars in freezing weather. Below are some tips to prepare for an emergency and what to do if you get stranded. The first step in staying safe in extreme cold is preparation. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advises stocking vehicles with items to handle common winter driving-related tasks and supplies for an emergency, such as: A snow shovel, broom, and ice scraper Sand, kitty litter, or other abrasive material in case your vehicle gets stuck in the snow Jumper cables, flashlight and warning devices such as flares and emergency markers First aid kit, including a tourniquet, hot cold packs, bandages, antiseptic wipes and pain killers Blankets or emergency thermal blankets A cell phone charger, water, food, and any necessary medicine The National Weather Service said if you get stuck in a storm, stay in your vehicle, as it is easy to become disoriented quickly in wind-driven snow and cold. Run your motor for about ten minutes every hour for heat, but open the window a little for fresh air to circulate as you run it, as carbon monoxide poisoning can happen when the motor is idling, even when your car is out in the open. Clear snow from the exhaust pipe to help avoid poisoning. Do everything you can to be visible to rescuers by turning on the dome light at night when running the engine, tie a bright colored cloth, preferably red, to your antenna or door, and after the snow stops falling, raise the hood of your car to indicate you need help.