Emergency Supply Kit for Your Car - What Should I Have?
No matter the weather or season, emergencies can happen, and they’re always unexpected. Though you can’t predict what sort of disasters, accidents, or emergencies might happen in your area, you can prepare now so that you and your family can be safe, wherever the road leads.
Emergency Kit for the Car
Ensuring that your next road trip is a success is key to enjoying the ride. But really, your car should be emergency-ready all year round. Here are some things to keep in the car 24/7 to be sure that when trouble strikes, you’re safe and prepared:
- Car registration (keep in glove box)
- Insurance card (keep in wallet)
- Drinking water and non-perishable food for people and pets
- Cell phone charger and car adapter
- First-aid kit (e.g. adhesive bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, antiseptic cream, pain relievers, medical gloves, hydrocortisone, thermometer, tweezers, and instant cold compress)
- Flashlight with extra batteries, or a manual hand-cranked light
- Windshield washing fluid, rags, paper towels, and/or pre-moistened wipes
- Basic tools (e.g. reversible screwdriver, multi-tool knife, safety hammer, duct tape, tow strap)
- Emergency whistle, road flares and/or reflectors, reflective emergency vest and roadside triangles
- Jumper cables or a jump pack
- Sand, road salt, non-clumping cat litter or traction strips
- Tarp, rain poncho and gloves
- Small portable/foldable shovel
- Small fire extinguisher
- Tire gauge, jack, lug wrench, spare tire, tire pump, and tire repair kit or tire sealant spray
A few other miscellaneous items that could come in handy:
- Lighter, box of matches, and candles
- Scissors and string/cord
- Spare change/cash
- Compass and paper maps
Winter specific items to stock during the colder months:
- Ice scraper/snow brush
- Blankets, mittens, socks and hats
- Heat reflective blankets and hand warmers
Keep your family members’ contact information along with emergency phone numbers handy, and remember to inventory your car’s emergency kit every six months or so––restock, replace, and reorganize. A well-maintained kit in your car is a great backup to your home emergency readiness supplies.
Once you’ve assembled your personalized kit be sure to have your trusted mechanic check your car’s vital systems before heading out. Then get out there and enjoy the open road! Wherever life takes you, know that Althans is here to protect what matters most. Reach out today to discuss your insurance needs for home, auto, and life.
