You’re driving along. Everything’s normal up until it is not.
Roadside emergencies happen, and a good emergency car kit will keep you in the driver’s seat. If you’re ever on the road, you can take care of the problem — whatever it might be — without stressing too much.
Do you have an emergency car kit? If the answer’s no, take a few minutes and create one.
After doing some personal planning, you may feel more prepared but not quite sure what you should pack. We’ve got a complete checklist for you.
Keep reading to learn what to pack in your car’s emergency kit.
A Spare Tire and Tools to Change It
Regarding emergency car kits, one of the most important things to include is a spare tire and tools to change it. This is because a flat tire is one of the most common car problems and being stranded on the road is not a fun experience.
Tools you will need to change a flat tire include a lug wrench, a jack, and a tire iron. If you don’t know how to change a tire, it’s a good idea to practice at home first so you’ll be familiar with the process.
Jumper Cables
Your emergency car kits should contain jumper cables. They are used to jump-start a dead battery.
There are two sets of jumper cables, each with two alligator clips. One set of alligator clips is attached to the live battery, and the other is to the dead battery.
Jumping a battery is a simple process, but it’s essential to follow the instructions that come with the jumper cables. Incorrectly connecting the alligator clips can cause severe damage to the cars and the people involved.
A First Aid Emergency Car Kit
Your first aid kit should have band-aids and antiseptic wipes. It should also have disinfectant spray, cotton balls, gauze pads, adhesive tape, and tweezers.
If you don’t have time to prepare your first aid supplies, you could consider buying kits on the go. You should also include a list of emergency phone numbers, such as the police, fire department, and poison control.
Flashlight with Batteries
Including a flashlight with batteries in your kit will be helpful if you have to change a tire in the dark or if your car breaks down and you need to signal for help. A flashlight will also come in handy if you evacuate your vehicle in an emergency.
Bag of Sand, Rock Salt, or Cat Litter
A bag of sand, rock salt, or cat litter can help traction if your car becomes stuck in snow or ice. You can also use them to absorb spilled fluids and prevent damage to your car’s paint.
Prepare for Emergency Situations
An emergency car kit is a must for every driver. It gives you peace of mind knowing you are prepared for the unexpected and can help you in various situations. From flat tires to engine trouble, an emergency car kit can help you get back on the road.
At a minimum, your emergency car essentials should include a first-aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, flares, and an essential tool kit. You may also want to include items like a blanket, snacks, and water depending on your needs.
If you found this article helpful, check out the rest of our blog for more helpful tips.