At some point in their lives, almost all drivers will experience some sort of emergency situation while in their vehicles. If these emergencies are not handled properly, the result can be accident, injury or even death. This guide will help you know what to keep in your car in case of an emergency and how these items might be useful in an emergency situation. I hope this list will be useful for you on your next roadtrip!
Items to Keep in Your Car
The American Red Cross suggests that the following items be kept in your car at all times, in case of an emergency:
- · Flashlights and extra batteries
- · A folding camping shovel
- · Jumper Cables (8-12 feet long)
- · Set of tire chains (know how to install these beforehand)
- · Fuses (ensure you have the right ones for your car since there are several types)
- · Tools: pliers, flat and Phillips-head screwdrivers, and an adjustable wrench
- · Wool blanket
- · 2 quarts of motor oil, brake fluid, power-steering fluid (if applicable), automatic transmission fluid (if applicable), a gallon of water, and a gallon of antifreeze. Be sure to include a funnel and a few cloth rags handy, in case of spills)
- · Fire extinguisher
- · Road flares
- · Gloves, wool socks, and a pair of boots
- · Bright cloth or emergency road sign to display in your window in case of trouble
- · First Aid Kit
Importance of the above items
A flashlight is important in case your car breaks down the middle of the night or on a cloudy day. In this case you will need the flashlight to see whatever you’re working on. A shovel is important in case of inclement weather such as a snowstorm because it will help you dig your car out. Jumper cables are important in case your car needs to be restarted. I suggest purchasing jumper cables that are 12 feet long because it the other car can be located from behind and still successfully jump your car. Tire chains are helpful in snowy weather although I suggest installing them on your tires before driving in snowy terrain.
Fuses should be kept in your car in case your headlights go out while driving. A tool kit is helpful if you need to make any repairs while traveling. A wool blanket will keep you warm until a tow truck can arrive if your car breaks down. The same can apply to gloves, wool socks, and a pair of boots
It’s important to keep essential fluids such as oil and brake fluid with your car in case it runs low while traveling. A fire extinguisher should always be kept available in case your car catches on fire (it’s rare, but it could happen so it is important to be safe!)
Road flares will bring attention to your car if you need to pull over to the side of the road. Flares can be seen from a significant distance away so cars will know to avoid your car parked at the side of the road. A first aid kit will help you and any passengers if there are any injuries during your trip.