RICHMOND, VA -- Results of a recent CarMax-sponsored online survey indicate that most drivers aren't adequately prepared for winter weather. A total of 65% of respondents said they don't have a winter emergency kit in their car.

CarMax Inc., a major retailer of used vehicles, said it recommends that all drivers prepare a winter emergency kit for their vehicle. 

"If you have to travel in winter weather, an emergency kit can be a life-saving tool," said Linda White, location general manager at CarMax in Midlothian, Va. "Most people already have the suggested items; it’s just a matter of collecting them and putting them in your car."

CarMax recommends the following items for a winter emergency kit:

• Flashlight

• Jumper cables

• First-aid kit

• Flares or hazard triangles

• Warm clothes, gloves and a blanket

• Ice scraper

• Snow shovel

• Kitty litter—for traction on slick roadways

• Extra washer fluid

• Non-perishable food and bottled water

• Cell phone car charger.

In the survey, one in 10 car owners stated they have none of the essential supplies for a winter emergency kit. More than half of those surveyed reported having jumper cables, a flashlight or an ice scraper in their vehicle.

The survey was conducted by Ipsos Public Affairs on behalf of CarMax. The national, random sample consisted of more than 1,000 U.S. adults who were surveyed online Nov. 15-19, 2012.