Coffee Can Survival Kit

Here's how to make your own:

  • 2 or 3 pound coffee can (punch 3 holes at the top of can, equal distance apart)
  • 60-inch length of twine or heavy string (cut into 3 equal pieces - used to suspend can)
  • 3 large safety pins (tie string to safety pins and pin to car roof interior to suspend can over candle)
  • 1 candle 2" diameter (place on lid under suspended can for melting snow)
  • 1 pocket knife, reasonably sharp (or substitute with scissors)
  • 3 pieces of bright cloth 2" wide x 36" long (tie to antenna or door handle)
  • Several packets of soup, hot chocolate, tea, bouillon cubes, etc. (mixed into melted snow to provide warmth and nutrition)
  • 1 small package of peanuts (provides protein) & fruit-flavored candy (orange slices, jelly beans, etc.-avoid chocolate)
  • 1 pair of athletic socks (cotton) and 1 pair of glove liners (cotton)
  • 2 packages of book matches
  • 1 sun shield blanket or 2 large green or black plastic leaf bags (to reflect body heat)
  • 1 pen light and batteries (keep separate)

When complete, place stocking cap over kit and carry in passenger compartment of car. If you have a 3 pound can, you will still have additional room for band-aids, aspirin, small radio, etc. If there is still room left, increase the quantity of any of the above items or improvise items you feel might be necessary.

Remember hypothermia (rapid loss of body temperature) can happen to anyone!

Stay in your car until help arrives!

An accident or severe weather situation can occur at any time. Your driver must be aware of the effects of cold weather in the event he or she becomes stranded.