Be ready if something should happen while you are out driving.
Whatever make or shape of your car, things can happen and its best to be ready when it does. Are you prepared for a flat tire? How about mechanical failure such as brakes, or even running out of gas?
To call your auto club for assistance you will need a phone and it isn’t recommended to use the phone while driving, but in case of emergency it is invaluable. Your car kit can have additional articles for longer trips or for winter months.
Occasionally check your car kit to make sure that all components are working and up to date. Example: make sure the spare tire is inflated; you have cell phone charger; your food on hand is fresh; water hasn’t leaked out, etc.
The intention for this car kit is to help you to get help, making sure you signal other motorists that you are there, and to face things as they happen.
Cell Phone; keep it handy and fully charged. Keep a spare charger in the car. If you must call 911, remember that they will not automatically know your phone number or location. You may have to leave the car in order to be able to get service if you are in a remote location.
First aid kit-Keep a decent one in the car and familiarize yourself with its contents and usage.
Fire extinguisher-Keep an extinguisher in the car that was made for the purpose.
Tire gauge. Check all the tire pressure regularly, including the spare. Jack and lug wrench. Most cars come equipped with the tools to change a tire. An owners manual will help with how to use them. Some cars come with tires that can be driven while flat. In this type of vehicle, there will not be a jack for changing tires.
A portable tire compressor can be extremely handy. Just tap it on to the tire air plug and in to the cigarette lighter inside the car, turn it on and the tire will be pumped up. Often it will get you home or to a garage.
Your owners manual should tell you what types of fuses your car has. It is recommended that you keep an assorted supply on hand, especially if your car is prone to electrical problems.
If you have ever been out and your car won’t start because of a low battery, you will know how valuable a set of jumper cables can be. There are also portable booster cables erasing the need for a second car.
Let there be light. Never leave home without a flashlight. Buy the best you can find that is waterproof and that can mount, such as a magnet, on to surfaces to free up your hands. Don’t forget extra batteries.
Have your roadside assistance phone number handy in your car. Nothing worse than breaking down and not having the number.
Carrying a camera can be beneficial in case of an accident, the damages can be recorded.
Pencil and paper will be very useful, at any time, in the car.
Winter driving brings another set of problems. Keep an ice scraper handy, extra gloves and hat, blanket, small shovel.