These things should be in your car disaster kit
Many of us have an emergency kit at home with non-perishable food, water, first aid, etc. But experts say you should be just as prepared in your car. Here’s a list of thing you should consider keeping in your trunk in case of emergency:
- Cellphone: You probably have yours with you most of the time anyway. But if you get stranded, it’s your lifeline to help. You should also keep a charger in your car.
- Ice scraper: If you’re like Dave, you had to scramble to find a scraper when it snowed. We recommend one with a long-handle, and a brush you can use to sweep the snow off your vehicle.
- Jumper cables: The best preparation is to make sure your vehicle has a good battery. But it doesn’t hurt to keep jumper cables handy just in case.
- First aid kit – In case of injury, this could be a lifesaver.
- Flashlight: A small, bright flashlight can come in handy in all kinds of situations. We even recommend a headlamp so you can keep your hands free.
- Road flares: If you’re in an accident or stuck in the middle of the road, you’ll need these to warn other drivers that there’s an incident ahead. They’ll also alert emergency vehicle that you need help.
- Tire chains : It’s a good idea to practice putting chains on your tires before you need to use them for real. That way you know what you’re doing when you hit snowy conditions.
- Tow strap: If you need help getting out of a snow bank, a passing 4×4 truck may be able to pull you out. But one of you will need something to tow with.
- Blankets, winter hat, warm clothes, boots: If your car runs over an embankment, you may run out of gas or have a dead battery, in which case your heater won’t help you. And if you need to walk to find help, you’ll want to be able to stay warm.
- Spare food and water: Store enough so that everyone in the car has something to eat, in case you’re stuck for a long time.
- Shovel: A small, folding camping shovel can help you dig out of the snow.
- Cat litter: Icy roads? Cat litter can help you get the traction you need to get going. KAFE listener, Kelly, also suggests rock salt to melt the ice.
