Question: Hi, I read your "Ask A Trooper" article regarding Winter Travel Survival Kit Essentials. You might reconsider recommending cat litter as an agent for traction. Traditional cat litter is made of small chunks of clay, when one attempts to use it for traction in winter conditions it quickly dissolves into a slippery mess, making traction less viable. That was my experience.

Answer: There are several effective alternatives to help regain traction if you become stuck in the snow. Options include sand, tire chains, snow socks, traction mats or boards. In emergency situations, some people have even used floor mats, cardboard, or branches/weeds with success.

How to Use Traction Aids:

• Clear the snow: Dig out snow from in front of and behind your tires to give yourself room to move. 
• Apply material: Place your chosen traction aid (sand, mats, boards, etc.) directly in the path of the drive wheels.
• Accelerate slowly: Gently apply the gas so the tires can grip the material. Avoid spinning the tires, as this can dig you in deeper.

               ◦ If your vehicle has traction control, you may want to temporarily turn it off.

               ◦ A gentle rocking motion (forward and reverse) can also help free the vehicle.

We still have a lot of winter left, and it’s always best to be prepared for any winter travel emergency.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on “X” @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).