Getting stuck in the snow during a Missouri winter can be inconvenient at best, and extremely life-threatening at worst. As the temperatures drop and the roads get more dangerous, the lives of you and your family might depend on what you keep in the trunk of your car.

Texas County Mutual Insurance, based in Licking and providing auto and home insurance to families throughout the region, recommend keeping the following items in your car until the snows melt:

• Blankets: If you're stuck in a snowdrift, staying warm will be your first order of business. Keep enough blankets on hand to keep everyone warm if you can't get help right away, and, just in case, you might want to include a few hand warmers.
• A Spare Phone: A low-cost old-fashioned flip phone may be best, since they might last for days on a single charge and are generally tougher than smartphones. Keep it fully charged and wrapped in blankets in your trunk so you can call 911 when it matters most.
• Flares: Road flares can make a huge difference, helping you get the attention of rescuers or motorists driving by. If you break down on the road, they also help other drivers avoid crashing into you.
• A First Aid Kit: If someone is injured in an accident and no help is on the way, a simple first aid kit can make a big impact. You should also know how to use it, so you might want to take first aid lessons from your local Red Cross.
• A Shovel: In many cases, having a shovel on hand means the difference between being stuck in the snow and driving away.

Whether you're looking for good auto coverage or a home insurance policy, Texas County Mutual Insurance has the financial expertise and range of services you need. Visit their website to learn more about their century of service to Missouri's communities, or call (573) 674-3125 to get auto and home insurance quotes today.