Drivers keep all kinds of items in their cars: CD’s; books; magazines; food and drink, and phone chargers, to name a few. Out of all of the things we keep in our cars, most of us do not have an emergency kit. What happens when one is stranded on the side of a deserted road, or has slid down an embankment and is not able to be seen from the road? Preparing an emergency kit for one’s car is very important. The following items can help if an emergency occurs:
What to Pack in an Emergency Kit:
- Cell phone – or money to call from a pay phone
- First aid kit – can be purchased from any pharmacy
- Fire extinguisher – can be purchased at an auto parts store
- Warning lights or flares
- Lug wrench – make sure it fits the lugs on one’s tires
- Tire jack – purchase one besides the one that comes standard in cars
- Tire sealant – such as ” Fix-a-Flat ”
- Fuse kit – useful if a fuse goes bad while traveling
- Jumper cables – purchase ones that are longer, as they are easier to use
- Flashlight with extra batteries – or a crank flashlight
- Poncho – can be purchased at a dollar store
- Windshield scraper – if one lives where ice can be a problem
- Blanket – useful if stranded overnight or in the cold
- Large duffle bag – to keep all necessary contents together
- Spare tire – make sure it is not flat!
Additional Items to Pack When Traveling:
The above items should always be kept in the trunk of one’s car. Additional Items to pack while traveling:
- Food
- Water
- Toiletry items – bathroom tissue, paper towels
- Extra clothing
- Extra tools – Such as screw-drivers and pliers
- Navigation system or maps
- Cell phone charger
Check these items periodically for expiration dates, if applicable, to ensure that everything is in working order. These items can be used if one finds himself stranded on the side of the road; if one is stuck in cold weather; if one’s car battery dies; or if one has to change a flat tire. When purchasing items for an emergency, I would avoid items that are of low quality. These items will be used in an emergency, so make sure they are going to be reliable.
For a comprehensive list of suggested items to keep in ones car, visit Consumer Reports for list of what to carry in ones car in case of an emergency.
