What You Need in Your Emergency Car Kit

You probably have a first aid kit in your bathroom or kitchen at home. When you travel, you probably pack a miniature version of this in your luggage. But what about your vehicle? Are you prepared with an emergency car kit? Your auto body repair shop in Walnut, CA offers the following tips to put this kit together.

Having these items with you can prevent minor inconveniences from turning into major challenges. Before you hit the road, gather this gear:

• Canvas bag: This is ideal to store the majority of the equipment that makes up your emergency car kit. It will keep everything organized and in one place for easy access.
• Jumper cables: Make sure they are the right type for your vehicle. They should be between 12 and 20 feet long to easily reach other vehicles for charging.
• Flares: Stock your emergency car kit with a set of four roadside flares or glowsticks. Reusable LED flares are a good choice. If you’re stranded on the side of the road at night, these will help keep you safe from passing traffic and can also help alert others to your location if you run off the road.
• Gas can: No one ever plans to run out of gas, but it happens. Stash a two-to-five gallon no-spill can in your trunk, just in case you need to make a trek to get gas.
• First aid kit: Include all the basics. These are available to purchase pre-packed for you with all the essentials.
• Bottled water: Keep two to three gallons of water on hand at all times.
• Tool kit: A small tool kit with a tire pressure gauge, screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench and vise grips can come in handy in a variety of situations.
• Flashlight: Don’t forget extra batteries, or choose a flashlight that doesn’t need batteries.
• Car escape tool: Keep a seatbelt cutter and window breaker in the car with you for emergency escape scenarios.
• Blanket: Even California can experience cold snaps. If you’re ever stranded in your car, you’ll be happy to have a blanket.
• Fire extinguisher: Include a car fire extinguisher in your kit. If emergency crews are delayed, this could save your car or your life.
• Food: Include granola or energy bars in your stash.
• Shovel: A small, foldable shovel will be key if you ever need to dig out of snow or mud.
• Fluids: Stock your emergency car kit with one gallon of antifreeze, two quarts of oil and one container of washer fluid.
• Duct tape: You might be surprised at what you can accomplish with one roll of duct tape.
• Paper towels: Include a roll of paper towels or a few rags.
• Pen and paper: If your phone isn’t working, you may need another way to take down information after an accident.
• Seasonal supplies: Depending on the season and where you will be driving, include the appropriate seasonal gear (ice scraper, umbrella, rainwear, etc.)

Be Prepared

Your properly stocked emergency car kit will help you in a variety of scenarios. For additional tips on car care, travel and more, contact your experts in auto body repair in Walnut, CA. The professionals at Pete’s Auto Body are ready to assist you with all your automotive needs.

Categorised in: Auto Body Repair

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