An emergency car kit is one that you can either put combine yourself or buy through internet to help keep you safe on the road. It is one of the things that you should forever have but hope you will not need to use it.
Emergency roadside kits are generally confused with first aid kits and whilst a first aid kit should be added there are also other vital things you should also include. There are lots of blogs which can advise the top things to include in your emergency roadside kit. So, to make things a little easier, we have gathered the most vital pieces of equipment that you should keep in an emergency kit for your vehicle.
Advantages of the emergency kit for your vehicle
There are many advantages to having an emergency road kit in your vehicle. Whilst it can be true that high weight can use more fuel, it is worth keeping the emergency kit in your car at all times as you never know when it might come in handy. Overall, a vehicle emergency kit is used to keep you safe in the event of medical incident or breakdown. Some road accidents cannot be rejected and will be serious it forever pays to be prepared in the event of incident. Having a pre-prepared emergency kit can also provide you added relaxation of mind with an extra layer of protection behind you.
Essentials you need in a car emergency kit
Here are some of the essential for your car emergency kit:
Flares and lighting
The first and most vital safety items to add in your auto emergency kit are reflective triangles or flares, which warn other drivers of the roadside risk, mainly in low visibility situations. In case of breakdown, they should be spaced out evenly along the roadside behind your car. For a long-lasting, reusable option, invest in a battery-run LED flares. A flashlight like Arkfeld pro Flat EDC flashlight is also a necessity, if you are traveling at night in a dark area.
First aid kit
A first aid kit is a must-have item to add in any emergency road kit, indispensable for addressing little everyday injuries and more serious wounds from an accident. You can buy them prepacked with all essentials or assemble one customized to your requirements. Families with little children should add medications that are age appropriate. Be sure to know what drugs are required for your passengers and pack enough to last for a reasonable time.
Jump leads
Jump leads are used when your vehicle would not begin and they can give life to your vehicle battery if it is dead. This can happen to older vehicle batteries or even new ones that use a lot of unique features such as an infotainment display or heated seats. An empty battery can happen at any time and it is top to be prepared. If the jump leads would not work, you may need to replace your vehicle battery instead.
Map
No issue what country we are in, a map should forever be added in your emergency vehicle safety kit. Many drivers use their phones for navigation but if you don’t have a charger or are in a place, which has no reception, a map could be a lifesaver.
Water and snacks
No issue how long journey will take, you should also have snacks and water in your roadside emergency kit. If you are off on a road tour or popping to the shops, it is forever best to be prepared. You should ensure you have a few bottles of water handy and any sacks that can be ready to eat and don’t go off immediately.
Puncture repair kit
Learning how to replace a tyre is a really vital skill to know but in many cases, this can be a last idea. You can money and time by having a puncture repair kit in your vehicle at all times. You can use the puncture repair kit as a fast fix whilst on the road until you can get to a garage to repair it rightly.
Car fluids and tools
Flat tires are one of the most general causes of roadside issue, but it is not forever possible to change a tire. Including a can of tire inflator and sealant in your kit can get you back on the road at least until the next stop. Here are some of the items that will help you in roadside crisis:
- One gallon of coolant
- 1 quart of more of motor oil
- A toolkit with pliers, screwdrivers, and an adjustable wrench
- One set of windshield wiper blades
Best wiper blades are also important to have handy, as they can clear a windshield in less than 3 swipes without having streaks. Keep a set of new blades in your car so you can change worn blades immediately and on the go.
Spare tire
A blown tire can happen anytime and should be changed quickly with a spare tire. Many cars come equipped with a spare, but not all, so ensure you have got one. They are generally saved in a recess under the floor of the trunk.
High-visibility clothing
If you are stuck on the road side, you may not be visible to other drivers, mainly when driving at night. Keep yourself safe by having more form of high visibility equipment or clothing as part of your emergency car kit. A risky triangle is also good to have and should be located a few metres in front of a broken-down vehicle to warn oncoming traffic.
Storing your car emergency kit
Store your vehicle DIY car emergency kit in a simple-to-grab plastic or bag in your trunk or backseat floor, or a built-in toolbox, if you have any.
Food should be saved in a food-grade bucket or plastic dry cooler, which you can add inside your vehicle or as separate container with your vehicle emergency kit. Be sure to check your kit every six months to update expired items.
