Are you prepared for the nasty things that can happen when you are on the road; things like flat tires, a dead batteries, or being stuck in mud or snow? No, well don’t feel bad – few people are. So, let’s head off this situation before it hits. Here’s a good list of the best tools and supplies you’ll want to keep in your vehicle for emergency use.
A Good First Aid Kit – It is likely you will dig into a first aid kit long before your next car issue occurs -especially if you have children. Children have a way of getting hurt constantly when they play. The Red Cross suggests that your automotive first aid kit include things like bandages, gauze, tape, antibiotic ointment, and non-latex gloves.
Screwdrivers, wrenches and pliers – You should have a few tools with you also. At a bare minimum, have phillips head and standard screwdrivers, several common metric wrenches and a set of pliers. You may want to purchase a small kit containing all of these tools at your local autoparts store or from Sears.
Jumper Cables – You don’t want to be stranded with a dead battery and not have jumper cables – and dead batteries happen all the time. Everyone should have a pair of jumper cables in their car. You’ll also then be prepared as a Good Samaritan if someone else needs a “jump”.
Work gloves – A set of work gloves is a great thing to have in your work kit. You may need them just to keep your hands warm during an emergency situation.
Flashlight – Murphy’s law practically dictates that the next time your car breaks down it will be at night. Make sure you keep the batteries fresh also.
Snow Brush with Ice Scraper – If you live wear it snows, have a good snow brush. If your car gets hit by an ice storm, you will really want the scraper part of a snow brush.
Flares or a LED Flashing Light – If you’re broken down along the highway, take a tip from the truckers and carry flares, a reflective triangle, or LED flashing lights to warn other cars.
Shovel – If you live in a climate or terrain where you might get bogged down in snow or mud, having a shovel on hand is a necessity. Get a durable, foldable shovel and you may be very glad you did when your car gets stuck.
Fix-A-Flat – Don’t want to mess with changing a tire? Fix-A-Flat is an aerosol can that when sprayed into a wheel fills the tire and seals the leak from the inside. Fix-A-Flat is good for just a temporary fix but it can get you home in many situations.
Sand or Kitty Litter – Sand or clean kitty litter will also help provide traction if you get caught in snow.
There is little in life more frustrating than having car problems on the road and realizing that the tool or supply you need is back home in the garage. The suggestions above are a good starting place to avoid this happening to you. Take a few minutes now to equip your car with the necessary stuff, and you can drive with peace of mind.
Source: Thompson Chrysler at Edgewood
