Emergency situations usually happen when you least expect them. It is important to be prepared for the unexpected, especially as the winter season begins and people are out on the road enjoying the cooler weather. Make sure you have an Emergency Kit in your car.
BePrepared.com lists the following items as “Emergency Essentials” that every driver should be sure to include in their car’s emergency kit:
- Water
- Food
- Warmth
- Light
- First Aid
- Tools
- Kitty Litter
Water is one of the most important things to include in your emergency kit. You can survive for days without food, but water is essential in keeping the body hydrated and the organs functioning. It’s can also be used as a quick fix if your car needs coolant.
Food can be difficult to store in your car due to changing temperatures, but high calorie food bars are the perfect item to buy. Not only are they high in calories and energy, but they’re also small in size and they won’t leave you thirsty.
Warmth is another emergency kit essential. Think about how you will keep warm if you are stuck waiting for assistance – what could you use? This can differ based on the area you live in and the severity of the weather. Some items to consider are warm packs (for pockets, shoes, gloves, etc.), a wool blanket, an emergency blanket and a sleeping bag.
A first aid kit is always a great addition to your car emergency kit. Basic items such as Band-Aids, gauze, disinfectant and pain relievers can be very useful in a number of circumstances.
Tools are a must-have in your car emergency kit. Keeping tools such as a multi-purpose knife, duct tape, jumper cables, rope and a hammer around can be the key to a quick fix you need to get back on the road. Flashlights, LED lights light sticks and matches are all great options for your emergency kit.
Kitty litter is also a great item to keep in your trunk. If you ever get stuck just sprinkle some around your tires and you have instant traction! You don’t need a lot just a small amount can get you out of the stickiest situations.
How you fill each of these categories is up to you, be creative with the amount of space you have. Remember – no one plans on having an emergency, so being prepared is essential. Visit the Liberty Mutual website for tips on how to get started building your emergency kit.
