Whether you’re off on a long road trip or a routine journey to work, a roadside emergency can happen when you least expect it, so it pays to be prepared…
A well prepared emergency kit can cover you for most eventualities; Keeping you and your passengers safe, helping you to find assistance and getting yourself out of a sticky situation.
Whether you already have one in your vehicle or need to put one together, follow our emergency roadside kit checklist to make sure you have every eventuality covered.
What to put in your emergency kit:
- Flashlight (and spare batteries)
- First-aid kit
- Cheap pre-paid mobile & car charger
- An adjustable wrench
- Flat head screwdriver
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Duct tape
- Anti-freeze
- Pocket knife
- Tire pressure gauge
- Ice scraper
- High vis jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- Triangle reflectors & flares
- Space blanket
- Energy bars
- Jumper cables
- Sat nav
Find a cheap plastic container to store your items in and you can keep your emergency kit in your trunk for when you need it, without all its contents running around the back of your car.
If you are limited for space in your trunk you should at least put together a smaller emergency kit, at very least you should include: A multi-purpose tool (with screwdrivers, pocket knife, saw, pliers & wire cutters), Small first-aid kit, flashlight, Tire inflator, Pocket knife & screwdrivers.
Putting it into action
If you should ever find yourself in an emergency situation you need to know how to put everything in your kit to good use.. It could get you out of a tough situation!
They’re pretty common sense but worth reminding yourself:
- Where possible move your car completely off the road before taking any emergency procedures
- Stay inside your car with the windows up and doors locked while waiting for help to arrive
- If you are outside of your vehicle at night, wear your fluorescent jacket while inspecting your vehicle, making any repairs or standing by the roadside
- Put on your emergency lights and put out your emergency triangles to show your location
Are you making a long trip soon? Take time before you go to check your emergency kit and you’ll thank yourself if you ever come to need it…
Long-distance journeys are a good opportunity to give your vehicle a health check. Bring your car into Fred’s Auto Repair for a checkup. Schedule an Appointment or Call: 203-934-7251