Roadside emergencies and car breakdowns can happen to anyone. The model or age of your car does not guarantee that you won’t experience a breakdown. All that matters is the condition of it.
Prepare for the worst-case scenario by assembling an emergency kit that you can use anytime. Depending on your driving patterns and the weather in your area, have a well-stocked supply kit handy. When you gather these essential items, they help you maintain the status of your car until towing service arrives. You never know when an emergency kit can keep you from being stranded for hours.
Below are some items you need when building your vehicle’s emergency kit to help get you out of all sorts of jams.
First Aid Kit
Even minor injuries require prompt attention to reduce the risks of complications. Whether you are a driver or passenger who sustained a non-emergency injury, a first aid kit comes in very handy. It should contain bandages, gauze, ointment, disposable gloves, thermometer, aspirin, gloves, cotton balls, and other medical necessities. Keep everything together in a waterproof pouch or box and store it away from direct heat.
Multipurpose Tool Kit
If your car breaks down or runs into trouble, it’s better to have a small kit of essential tools and equipment. Your vehicle should be stocked with a socket and screwdriver set, pliers, vise grips, adjustable wrench, tire pressure gauge, and jumper cables. A window or seatbelt escape device near the driver’s seat could literally save lives.
Fire Extinguisher
Did you know that an average of 17 automobile fires occurs every hour? Motor vehicle fires can happen due to failure in electrical and mechanical systems. This is the reason why every driver should keep a fire extinguisher inside their vehicle. Always carry extinguishers to protect your property and give you peace of mind.
There are Class B extinguishers for fires caused by flammable fluids like gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel. On the other hand, you may use Class C extinguishers for fires due to the failure of electrical equipment and batteries.
The best place to place my fire extinguisher is either under the driver or front passenger seat for easy access. Bear in mind that you need to keep it secured in place to prevent accidental discharge.
Flashlight
A lightweight and portable flashlight can help you when you are stuck on the road at night. You may also use it to alert traffic if your vehicle is disabled. Buy flashlights with excellent features like reliable runtime and powerful beams of light. You may also opt for flashlights
with SOS strobe or solar charging capabilities for better functionality.
Portable Cellphone Charger and Power Banks
Having a fully charged cellphone is important especially during a car breakdown. You need your mobile devices to get immediate help and call towing service providers. Always keep a portable cellphone charger on hand in case your car stops. It will give you the much-needed power boost your phone needs. Look for power bank units that are compact, fast-charging, and compatible with a variety of mobile devices.
Flares and Warning Triangles
Make sure to inform other drivers when your car breaks down on the road. Use at least three reflective warning triangles to reduce the chances of causing an accident or traffic jam while you’re waiting for towing service. LED emergency beacon flares also provide high visibility for other drivers and motorists. You may also turn on the hazard lights of your car to warn others to slow down and approach safely.
Tire Pressure Gauge
No one wants to encounter tire problems while on a road trip. With the help of a tire gauge, you can check if your tires are properly inflated. Prevent a flat tire or blowout from happening by checking the air pressure of your tires including the spare ones. Don’t forget to this at least once a month to determine the need for pressure adjustment.
Pre-Assembled Emergency Roadside Kits
There are available compact safety roadside kits that contain all the essential accessories for unexpected auto emergencies. Some of the items included are warning triangles, life hammers, repair tools, and first aid kits. Simply store your car emergency kit in your trunk and have a worry-free road trip.
Talk to the Towing Experts
When things go wrong while you’re on the road, turn to us at Allentown Towing Co. Just give us a call and we will respond immediately to address your towing and roadside assistance needs!