What Do You Need for an Emergency Car Kit?
Summer is rolling on, and will be gone before we know it. The time between June and September disappearing in a flash is a tale as old as time, and making the most of it only becomes more vital as August dawns. Whether you’ve been planning a late summer trip all year, or you’re moved to a spontaneous vacation by the warm weather and long days, preparedness can help you ensure that you reach your destination safely and enjoy your trip, whatever unforeseen circumstances you may encounter on the road. That means ensuring that your vehicle is in appropriate traveling condition, but also that it’s loaded with appropriate kit in case of an emergency. Today’s Malloy Law Offices blog post will examine and explain the contents you should acquire for your emergency car kit.
Why is an Emergency Car Kit Necessary?
In short; it’s because little problems, easily navigated in our homes or workplaces, can prove much more serious and difficult while in a car in unfamiliar surroundings, assuming, of course, that you aren’t prepared. Preparedness can seem like a waste of time until the exact moment it becomes totally vital.
What Hazards Are Being Accounted For?
Emergency preparedness in an automobile can be divided into two subcategories:
- Breakdown – A vast array of minor mechanical failures driven by wear and tear or simple bad luck can be triaged at minimal cost to you in a relatively short span of time. A dead battery or a flat tire can be dealt with, assuming you have the right tools.
- Severe Weather – This one can be a moving target based on the unique circumstances of your location and the seasons it experiences. Residents of colder climates may wish to prioritize cold weather gear, if sudden and severe rain or flooding is a possibility, then it should be accounted for, and so on.
Building Your Emergency Kit
First Aid
In general, items to handle a medical emergency are essential. Prepackaged car first aid kits are widely available, but if you’d like to build your own, include the following:
- Bandages (Adhesive and Elastic)
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antiseptic
- Sterile gauze
- Cold packs
- Pain relievers
- Scissors
- Sterile nitrile or latex gloves
As a general rule, keep in mind that this is your kit and should be arranged to suit your needs. If you or your family members are asthmatic, consider packing a rescue inhaler. An epipen may save lives in case of an allergic reaction, and so on.
Radio
In the event your car loses power, a battery-operated radio may allow you to stay abreast of any emergency updates, which may be especially handy in case of severe weather.
Flashlight and Extra Batteries
Can help you navigate in case of a nighttime breakdown as well as signal for help.
Jumper Cables
A dead battery is a common issue that strands motorists. Jumper cables can help get you back on the road quickly with the help of a friendly passerby.
Tire Repair Kit, Multitool, and Air Pump
In a similar vein, a punctured tire can often be repaired by a small patch and inflated enough to help you navigate to a dedicated service station.
Water and Non-Perishable Food
If you’re stranded and awaiting roadside assistance, water and a few snacks can help you wait in relative comfort.
Road Flares or Reflective Triangles
If you find yourself stuck on a roadside, ensuring your car is visible to passing motorists can help minimize the chance of secondary accidents. Keepi9ng a bad situation from getting worse is often the point of an emergency car kit.
Shovel and Traction Aid
Especially useful for hobbyist campers, wilderness explorers or other habitual backroads drivers. This may also be a lifesaver in snow. Small ramps or planks can be purchased for repeat use, but for those who fear cluttering their cars, a simple bag of sand or gravel is often sufficient to help a car free itself from muck and mire.
External Battery and Cellphone Charging Cord
A charged cellphone is often essential for contacting emergency services or roadside assistance. A battery and charger can ensure the phone is ready to answer the call when it’s required.
How Malloy Law Can Help
If you or a loved one have been injured in a car accident, Malloy Law can help. Our experienced team of personal injury attorneys are the region’s car accident specialists and will fight for maximum recovery on your behalf. We’ll pursue compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and emotional trauma. Don’t wait. Contact Malloy Law today. Our dedicated staff will review your case free of charge.