We don’t think about what we need in an emergency situation--until we're in one. The items listed below are just a few things that can help you take control of an emergency situation, while maintaining the safety of your family. Whether you have a flat tire or another roadside emergency, or even worse an auto accident, you should consider having some of the following items in your car:
- Spare tire
- Jack
- Scissors
- Tool box with screwdrivers and wrenches
- Car owner's manual
- Blanket
- Small hammer
- Flares
- Fuses
- Snack food
- Sealant for small leaks in tires
- Duct tape
- Fire extinguisher
- Empty gas can
- Can of motor oil
- Portable radio with spare batteries
- Emergency phone numbers of family and friends
- Insurance information
- Car registration
- Flash light with spare batteries
- First aid kit
- Bottled water
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Paper
- Pen or pencil
- Pre-moistened towelettes
- Window scraper for ice
- Cell phone
- Reflective vest
The highlighted items are likely already there. The other are suggestions, and as long as the list is, there may not be space for everything.
Also, this list may not be complete—there may be other items not stated here. The purpose is to get you thinking about which items you think would be best to have. If you act and just one of your choice helps you in an emergency situation, then this post has served its purpose. Please remember if you are ever involved in a car accident, you should always make sure to follow another set of tips that we offer on what to do after an accident. Keep you and your loved ones safe!