Winter is here and it's cold. Stay safe on the roads by driving carefully, but in case you find yourself in an emergency on the highway, here are the four things you should have.

1. Blanket, candle and lighter

According to Sargent Mark Hume of RCMP Division 'D' Traffic Services, a blanket, candle and lighter are the most important things you can keep in your car during cold weather. 

"A single-wick candle can actually keep your warm for several hours," Sargent Hume said.

He warned that you need to crack a window if you are going to light a candle so you don't get carbon monoxide poisoning.

2. Cell phone

A cell phone is a very important tool to have in the car. You can call someone to let them know you have hit the ditch, including 911 if it's serious or tow trucks. Depending where you are, you could even call a friend to get you until you are able to get the car out.

"If you don't have a cell phone, call ahead and let someone know you're coming and when you expect to arrive," Sargent Hume reminded us.

3. Protein/granola bars

Another thing you should have in your vehicle are protein bars, since you don't know how long you will be stuck in the ditch.

"[That] and blankets and a candle will keep you warm for a long time," Sargent Hume said.

4. Winter clothes

Those who are driving on highways constantly may already be wearing winter clothes, but people driving inside the city may not have thick winter clothes. If that's the case, Sargent Hume highly recommends having ski pants and boots in the car at all times.

"I think it's still important to have a few things with you," he said. "Just in case you have to walk a little bit or push your car out of a snowbank."

BONUS: Toys (if you have kids)

If you're ever gotten stuck with a kid in the car for an extended period of time, you already know this. But if you haven't done that, or maybe you're driving with your niece and nephew, make sure you bring toys.

"Maybe for the sanity of the parents, a toy or two, so if you're sitting on the roadside for two or three hours, they have something to do," Sargent Hume laughed.

You should have most of these items (and for sure number one) in your car during winter, but the RCMP hope you never have to use them. Sargent Hume wants to remind drivers to drive carefully and drive to conditions. The speed limit, he said, is not the speed you have to go, especially when there is foul weather.

"Slow down, pay attention," Sargent Hume finished. "Most Manitobans are good winter drivers, so we'll make it through."