A sudden storm or breakdown can turn dangerous fast—experts say these essentials could make all the difference.
Being caught in a weather emergency while driving can be stressful and dangerous without the right supplies. Equipping a car with essential emergency items improves safety and comfort during unexpected situations. Experts from the FTC, NHTSA, CPSC, and FEMA recommend carrying a well-rounded kit that includes tools for visibility, warmth, communication, and basic repairs. Proper preparation ensures drivers can respond effectively to various weather-related challenges on the road.
1. Keep a sturdy flashlight with extra batteries in the glove compartment.
A sturdy flashlight is crucial for seeing in low-light conditions or during night-time emergencies. Keep it in the glove compartment and ensure it’s waterproof and shock-resistant. Extra batteries guarantee the light won’t fail when you need it most.
In emergencies like car breakdowns or roadside repairs, a reliable flashlight helps illuminate the area, providing much-needed visibility. It’s also useful for signaling for help or checking detailed aspects of your vehicle. Regularly check battery life and replace batteries to ensure it’s always ready.
2. Store a compact emergency blanket to retain body heat if stranded.
An emergency blanket is compact, lightweight, and designed to conserve body heat. It is particularly useful in cold weather if you’re stranded and need to stay warm. The material reflects body heat, making it efficient without taking up much space.
In situations where waiting for help is unavoidable, such as being caught in snow or ice, an emergency blanket becomes a lifesaver. Its reflective properties also make you more visible to rescuers in low-light conditions. Carrying one in your car could make a significant difference in cold emergencies.
3. Include a first aid kit with basic supplies for minor injuries.
A first aid kit should contain essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze, catering to minor injuries on the road. Accessible from the trunk or glove compartment, it allows for quick response to minor medical issues.
Having a first aid kit ensures immediate attention to small wounds or scrapes, minimizing the risk of infections. Choose one that includes an instruction manual for proper usage. Consider periodically checking expiration dates and restocking supplies to maintain its effectiveness in emergencies.
4. Pack non-perishable snacks and bottled water for sustenance during delays.
Non-perishable snacks and bottled water address hunger and dehydration if stuck for long periods. Granola bars, nuts, and bottled water offer sustenance without requiring refrigeration, making them ideal for emergency car kits.
Traffic jams or severe weather conditions can delay travel unexpectedly. Having food and water available prevents discomfort and helps maintain energy levels. Occasionally check expiration dates to ensure edible quality. Proper storage and rotation keep supplies fresh for when they’re needed most.
5. Always have jumper cables to restart a dead car battery.
Jumper cables are essential for jump-starting a dead car battery. Stored in the trunk, they offer a simple solution to a common issue faced by drivers, especially in extreme temperatures that affect battery life.
When stranded with a dead battery, jumper cables used with another vehicle can quickly restore power. Recognizing how to use them safely is crucial to avoiding electrical hazards. Having cables on hand can save critical time and effort, turning a potential ordeal into a minor hiccup.
6. Carry a multi-tool for quick fixes and unexpected repairs on the road.
A multi-tool includes features like pliers, screwdrivers, and blades, assisting with minor roadside repairs. It’s a versatile necessity for unexpected situations, offering multiple functions in a compact form factor, fitting comfortably in the glove box or emergency kit.
Breakdowns or loose parts can disrupt travel plans, but a multi-tool allows for quick fixes, providing creative solutions when professional help isn’t nearby. It’s practical for handling small tasks during road trips, ensuring minor issues don’t escalate into significant problems.
7. Keep a bag of sand or kitty litter for extra traction on icy roads.
Sand or kitty litter enhances traction on icy or slippery surfaces, improving tire grip. A bag stored in the trunk can ease vehicle mobility in challenging weather, helping drivers regain control and stability.
Icy conditions increase the risk of skidding or getting stuck. Sand or kitty litter can be spread around tires to create traction, reducing the risk of accidents. These materials are inexpensive yet effective, offering an essential safety aid in winter driving conditions.
8. Store a fully charged portable phone charger to maintain communication.
A portable phone charger, kept fully charged, ensures sustained communication during emergencies. It helps maintain a lifeline to roadside assistance or emergency services when your phone battery runs low unexpectedly.
Phones are vital for navigation and communication, especially in unfamiliar areas. A dead phone leaves drivers without maps or contact options. A portable charger bridges this gap, empowering drivers to stay connected and informed during prolonged periods away from traditional charging points.
9. Include a reflective safety vest to stay visible during roadside emergencies.
A reflective safety vest enhances visibility during roadside emergencies, especially in low-light conditions. Store it easily accessible to wear when exiting your vehicle to be more noticeable to other drivers and emergency responders.
Visibility reduces the risk of accidents or injury, particularly in busy or poorly lit areas. Reflective material effectively catches headlights’ beams, ensuring that you stand out against the darkness. This simple precaution goes a long way in fostering a safer roadside environment.
10. Pack a small shovel to dig out snow or dirt around tires.
A small shovel aids in freeing vehicles from snow or dirt. Lightweight and collapsible designs fit neatly into car trunks, proving indispensable in wintry conditions where tires might get buried.
Stuck wheels hinder progress, but a shovel allows for quick digging around tires, creating space to regain traction. Efficient at handling snow or loose dirt, this tool is a practical component of a well-rounded emergency kit. It ensures preparedness for common winter obstacles.
11. Keep waterproof matches or a lighter to start a fire if needed.
Waterproof matches or a lighter provide means to start a fire, offering warmth or signaling capabilities in emergencies. Store these items securely to maintain their functionality, recognizing their importance as dual survival tactics.
Fire provides warmth against cold temperatures and can be a visible signal for assistance. While roadside flares are often preferred, a basic fire-starting tool offers excellent cold weather utility. Proper caution and legality are essential when planning to use open flames.
12. Store extra warm gloves and a hat to protect against cold weather.
Extra gloves and a hat safeguard against harsh cold, keeping extremities warm during extended exposure. Storing these items in your car ensures you’re prepared for sudden temperature drops or prolonged outdoor stays.
Cold weather can swiftly lead to discomfort or frostbite, particularly if stranding delays indoor access. Warm accessories help preserve body heat, making waiting for aid more bearable. Regularly check their condition and adjust sizes to fit all possible users effectively.