4 Essentials To Include In Your Roadside Emergency Kit
Drivers seldom think their car will break down while they’re on the road. But, it happens to thousands of people each day. Whether you’re driving a new or used car, dozens of problems can emerge from nowhere and leave you stranded. From broken head gaskets to failing transmissions, your car is a machine; its parts will give out. When they do, you should to be prepared to survive while you wait for help. Here are 4 essential items that you need to pack in your roadside emergency kit.
#1 – Cell Phone And Battery
These days, most of us have cell phones. They’re critical for making the call to your auto club, tow truck, or a friend when you’re stranded. But, cell phone batteries can wear out unexpectedly. You’ll probably have your phone with you in the car. Invest a few extra dollars to keep a spare battery in your roadside emergency kit.
#2 – Hazard Flares And Lights
If you’re driving in a dark area and your car breaks down, you need to give other drivers a warning. Even if you have pulled your vehicle over to the side of the road, a long, dark stretch of highway at night can be dangerous – for you and other motorists. You should activate the emergency lights in your car, but have hazard flares ready to use. The slow pulse of your lights may still escape the notice of other drivers. Flares stand out and don’t rely upon your vehicle’s battery.
#3 – Small Fire Extinguisher
It doesn’t happen often, but auto fires can start for several reasons, even while you’re driving. Leaking oil, shorts in the electrical system under the hood, and even the devices which trigger your vehicle’s air bags can ignite and cause a fire. Under normal circumstances, you should pull over immediately and leave your vehicle. But, if the fire is small, you may be able to put it out with a compact dry-chemical fire extinguisher. That can prevent the fire from causing an enormous amount of damage. Most auto repair shops offer small fire extinguishers for sale.
#4 – Jumper Cables
You would be surprised how many drivers don’t keep a pair of jumper cables in the trunks of their vehicles. You may have a membership to an auto club, but if your car dies in a desolate area, it may take hours for them to arrive. A friendly motorist can jump start your vehicle in minutes. Any auto repair shop will sell jumper cables for under $20. Invest in a pair for your roadside emergency kit.
Being Prepared For Anything
As long as vehicles rely upon moving parts, there will always be a risk of breaking down while you’re on the road. The key is being prepared. The 4 items above will keep you safe and alert other drivers while you’re waiting for assistance. Your roadside emergency kit should also include dry snacks, bottled water, and a flashlight in the event you’re stranded for long periods. Remember, it eventually happens to everyone. Keeping the right items in your kit can help you get back on the road more quickly.
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Tags: Car Safety, Emergency Road Kit
March 12th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
[...] 4 Essentials To Include In Your Roadside Emergency Kit … [...]
March 25th, 2009 at 2:23 am
Hi,Thanks for the information