Having a good auto emergency kit can keep your family safe and make life’s minor inconveniences less of a hassle. Most people have the basic necessities of jumper cables and a spare tire, but there are times when you may need a flashlight, bandage, or tissue while you are out on the road. The same principle goes to keeping all your tools for emergency repair and what not mostly inside your garage, keeping your garage door fixed and functional for safety not just for your car but other valuables as well.
This article will give you some suggestions on what to include in your auto emergency kit. Be sure to make an emergency kit for every vehicle in the family, especially if you have children that are of driving age.
First aid
All auto emergency kits should have certain basic first aid supplies. If possible, keep extra doses of every family member’s medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. If you care for elderly parents, be sure to include all of their medications as well. You do not want a minor road emergency like changing a tire to become a medical emergency because of a missed dose of medication. Include cleaning supplies like baby wipes and hand sanitizers to your auto emergency kit so you can disinfect minor wounds and wipe up spills.
Roadside emergency supplies
All cars should already contain the necessary tools to change a tire, but you should also keep commonly used tools like a screwdriver, hammer, and pliers in your auto emergency kit. Other useful items include duct tape, flashlights and batteries, flares, flashing emergency lights, a pocketknife, and rope. If you live in a cold climate, consider purchasing a small butane-fueled hand-warmer or the instant hand warmers sold at camping and fishing stores. This can keep you warm in case you are stranded on the side of the road for an extended period of time.
Personal Items
If you have room left in your auto emergency kit, you may want to include some personal items for your convenience. Start with a small pack of tissues and a roll of toilet paper. Put together an overnight bag with travel-size toiletries like a toothbrush, disposable razor, deodorant, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap, hair spray, shaving cream, and contact lens supplies, if needed. Throw in a pair of socks and underwear and you will never be caught off-guard if you have to spend the night away from home. If you have children, include socks and undergarments for each of them as well. Women may want to keep a small mirror and some basic cosmetics, hygiene items, and panty hose in case of a run.
Children’s supplies
If you have babies or small children, your auto emergency kit should also include all items they may need while you are out on the road. For infants, be sure to pack diapers, baby wipes, and formula. Keep some small toys or books in the car in case you are stuck in traffic and need something to entertain the kids. Extra clothes, socks, and underwear are good to have on hand in case of spills or rips in clothing. Include some non-perishable snacks in your auto emergency kit, such as granola bars, fruit roll-ups, or hard candy.