We rely on our cars to get us back and forth, either to and from work or on longer trips. Unfortunately, cars often will break down. Be prepared by having an emergency kit when that happens.
Why get a car emergency kit
You may have OnStar or AAA, but you never know when or where your car might break down. You could be required to wait or not have cell phone reception. By having a car emergency kit, you will be prepared for almost anything that may happen, whether in the city or on a rural back road.
What to include in your car emergency kit — part 1
The first thing you need is mechanical tools. You will be able to fix the car in a pinch. These tools will include:
* Get jumper cables
* Oil – at least three quarts
* The right type of antifreeze for your car
* Get some fuses
* Some screwdrivers or multiple bit screwdrivers
* A multi-tool that has pliers, a pocketknife and wire-cutters
* Wrenches or adjustable wrench
* A roll of duct tape
* Pressure gage and emergency tire inflator
* Heavy-duty tow rope
* Jack and spare tire
Part two of what to put in your emergency kit
You may face other problems that you could run into on the road. There are also other things you should have to keep the people in the car safe. These include but aren’t limited to:
* First aid kit
* Blankets or sleeping bag
* Flashlight with additional batteries
* Roll of toilet paper, paper towels or both
* Get a pen and notepad
* Energy bars or granola bars
* At least 1 gallon of water
* Get some roadside flares
* Get a large tarp
Relatively little space is taken up by a well packed car emergency kit, although it may seem like a lot of gear to pack. It can be stores under a seat or in the trunk. There will be a time where you are glad to have made this emergency kit.
