7 emergency items to keep in your car

(WXYZ) - Each time you get behind the wheel, you must consider what would happen if you were stuck in your vehicle for a while.

Here are the top 7 things we found that you should always have with you this time of year:

Blanket
LED Flashlight
Bottled water
Non-perishable food
Flares
Hat
First Aid Kit

Authorities are telling us that within 15 to 20 seconds, the blowing snow created whiteout conditions on Thursday.

Some drivers said that they were "blinded by" the snow.

Typically our first instinct may be to slam on the brakes, but as hard as that is resist, AAA says don't do that!

The association says pumping the brakes to get your speed down is the best option.

Also, it helps to look for the exit door, to try to visualize how you would get out of a situation.

If you have to swerve, try to veer out of on-coming traffic.

For more tips on driving safety, go here: http://michigan.aaa.com/driving-safety/670/689.uts