This is the type of app you never want to have to use, but you’ll be glad you have it if you ever need it. The Winter Survival Kit, by NDSU Extension Service, could be the deciding factor between life and death if you find yourself stranded on the side of the road in the treacherous winter weather. It will aid you in finding your current location, calling 911 emergency services, and notifying your family and friends that you are in distress.

Sure, most of these are functions that can already be done with your Android phone, but the centralized convenience the Winter Survival Kit offers could spare you crucial seconds if you have an emergency. The last thing you want to have to do is fumble through your phone looking for vital information.

The Winter Survival Kit features a “gas calculator” that will give you an estimate of how long your engine can keep running before you’re out of gas. It also will alert you every 30 minutes to remind you to turn off your engine and to check for snow buildup in your exhaust pipe. For those unaware, this can result in carbon monoxide poisoning, as the fumes are forced into the vehicle if your vehicle’s exhaust pipe gets blocked.

Also included is a NDSU Extension Service guide on preparing your car for rough winter driving conditions, as well as info on what to do to stay safe if you’re ever stranded in a winter storm.

If you live in an area where snow is a factor, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Head over to the Android Market and pick this app up for free. From our family to yours — bundle up and stay safe — it’s gonna be a long winter, folks. Stormy and I are certainly looking forward to that Las Vegas sunshine come CES time, next month.

Summary and Downloads:

Application: Winter Survival Kit
Developer: NDSU Extension Service
Cost: FREE