Emergency Items to Carry Along

"Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new."

A couple years ago one newspaper printed a list of a ten essentials to keep in your vehicle for emergencies.  No one wants to experience an emergency of any kind.  However, I still thought it a good idea to post some these … just in case especially since most of the folks I know spend a great deal of time on the road.

1. Duct Tape

We all know that duct tape is good for almost anything.   Duct tape can be a lifesaver on the road, to fix a dangling side mirror, a dragging bumper, or a broken hose. It can even keep the doors closed if the locking mechanism stops working in a wreck. Duct tape is cheap.  Add a couple bungee cords along with it and you’ve got options just in case it’s needed  for quick repairs.

2. Flashlight

Critical in a nighttime breakdown. Consider one with a base that will stand upright..  However, having a flashlight of any kind is better than no flashlight at all.  There are even those that you can wear on your head keeping your hands free to make repairs.  You might also think about adding a couple extra batteries to your emergency pack .. just in case.

 
 
 



3. Reflective Triangle, Flares, or Glow Sticks
They warn other motorists if you you're on the side of the road or need to stop to help others.  There are many different kinds.  Some require batteries and others do not.  The best ones to leave in your vehicle are the ones that aren’t in danger of having the batteries go down.

 

4. Tool Set

Most vehicles come with a jack and a lug wrench for changing the tires. For other jobs, such as tightening battery cables, include a small set of tools. Even if you don't know how to use them, the Good Samaritan who stops to help you will need something to work with. Consumer Reports suggests motorists carry socket and open-ended wrenches, a multi-tip screwdriver, and pliers.

5. Tire Inflator

Ever have a flat along the road and need something to get you down to the next stop?  We’ve had more than our share of flats this year.  I’m not so sure I would use this in a tire on our motorhome.  However, we’ve had three flats in the Jeep, one in the ATV and a couple on the bikes.  This is definitely a handy item to carry with you.  Well, either this or SLIME.

 

6. Jumper Cables

Jumper cables can restart your battery if there's a second car to give you a boost.  We always carry jumper cables … just in case.  Thank goodness we haven’t had to use them much but at least we have them.

 
 
7. First-aid Kit

Every vehicle should have a first aid kit of some kind.  It’s another one of those items that you hope to never need but you have it just in case.  Choose a kit that helps care for minor cuts or burns and has plenty of bandages.

 

8. Gloves and Rags
Car repair is dirty work. Having some gloves and extra rags just may come in handy.
 

9. Pen and Paper
Don't overlook that you may need to leave a note on your car if you leave to find help.  Or, maybe you just need a pad and paper as a reminder of something you need to take care. 

 

10. Water and Non-perishable Snacks

You may be stranded for several hours so snacks can keep you going, and in a pinch, water can help cool down and over-heating engine.

 



 

You could buy a kit already put together or put together your own.  There are a couple things I would add to this list.  One is a cell phone.  Another would be to carry an extra blanket or two in your vehicle.  This summer we were the first to arrive at an accident.  It was dark and in a dangerous location as curves were on both sides of it.  We didn’t have blankets, flares or even a flashlight.  Others who eventually showed up on the scene provided them. 

There are many little things you could add to this kit depending on your location and time of year.  I'm sure there are items many folks would add to this.  I can think of a few more too.  In some places having de-icer and a scraper could be important.  In most places …  extra cash – just in case ATMs are down or worse yet ... your credit card gets compromised -- been there, done that.

Be safe.  Be prepared.


‘Tis life on the road..