Travel safer on every trip.
It seems so natural to throw your stuff in your car and go. But according to AAA, about 33% of all motorists encounter a roadside breakdown or other hang-up, such as a dead battery, every year. One in three odds might make you stop and think for a minute about what you have in your vehicle. Many suggested items are related to weather conditions. You can easily swap the items out for snow and ice in warmer months, but be sure to get them back in before the temperatures drop. It’s also important not to have a false sense of security regarding cell phones and GPS services. Dead batteries, dead zones for cellular coverage, bad weather, and many other unexpected forces can quickly lessen reliability on things we depend on every day.
Important travel items
Here are some important items that could help you be better prepared in case of a breakdown situation or emergency preparation
- Charged cell phone and charger
- First-aid kit
- Fire Extinguisher
- Three reflective warning triangles and safety flares
- Spare tire or foam tire sealant
- Jack and lug wrench
- Jumper cables
- Waterproof flashlight and extra batteries
- Duct tape
- WD40 or lubricant
- Tow rope
- Multipurpose utility tool
- Rain poncho
- Drinking water
- Nonperishable snacks
- Warm blanket
- Snow shovel
- Cat litter as sand for traction
- Ice scraper
- Matches
- Cash
Check your tank
Ensure you always check the tank to ensure you have enough gas to get to your destination or to a gas station to fill up. Keep in mind that often it can be several miles before a gas station is available. Also, keep in mind that it might be closed. This is particularly important if you are in an unfamiliar area and are unsure where filling stations are located.
Stay Calm
If you find yourself with a problem, stay calm and think as carefully as possible about the situation. Panicked reactions can sometimes lead to poor choices and injury. Many accidents happen while disabled cars are on the shoulder of the road. Be sure to pull off the main travel lane as much as possible. Do not walk or linger in the travel lane. Mark your vehicle so others can see it day or night. Hopefully, you will always be in range to call for help or service. However, if you can’t, keeping these items on hand could dramatically change the outcome of your situation for the better.
