MADISON, Wis. -- After hundreds of drivers were stranded on Interstate 39-90 during Wednesday's snowstorm, WISC-TV's Teri Barr teamed up with Consumer Reports to find out what motorists should have in their vehicle emergency kits while traveling.

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There are certain essentials that could make a difference in an accident or weather-related situations, and Consumer Reports gave some suggestions.

Consumer Reports said that people should pack flares of hazard triangles to give others warning and to help avoid more crashes. They also recommended a first aid kit and jumper cables to get a charge from another car if the battery dies.

Experts said that other useful items that can be added to an emergency kit include: an extinguisher for any small fires; a foam tire sealer for the quick fix of a flat; gloves to keep hands clean and warm; and a flashlight for nighttime incidents.

A car phone charger can also be valuable, especially for travelers who get stranded for hours.

Consumer Reports said people should also think about packing a pocket knife, small shovel, pen and paper, a help sign, granola or energy bars and bottled water.