As we venture out on the roads, whether it's a daily commute or a long road trip, an emergency can arise at any moment. Having a well-prepared emergency kit in your vehicle can make all the difference in ensuring your safety and the safety of others in unexpected situations. This is especially true during the ever-changing weather in Alberta.
We have a list of items we recommend for your vehicle's emergency kit.
1. First Aid Kit
There are many different types of emergencies that may arise while on the road. It is important to be ready for any of them, and that means being ready for potential injuries. Your first aid kit should include: bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, tweezers, pain relievers, and any necessary personal medications.
2. Flashlight with Extra Batteries
Emergency situations always seem to happen at night and in a place where there are no streetlights. Having a flashlight handy will help you see not only the potential problem but help you get what you need out of your vehicle safely. LED flashlights are preferable for their long battery life.
3. Reflective Warning Triangles or Road Flares
If your car brakes down on the side of the road having these on hand will make sure you are seen by other drivers. These are placed a good distance behind and in front of your vehicle to warn oncoming traffic of your presence. It may even encourage a passerby to stop and help.
4. Jumper Cables
In the dead of winter nothing is worse than the clicking of a dead battery. Having jumper cables on hand will make it easier to get a boost from some kind soul. Make sure your cables are of good quality and long enough to reach another vehicle if needed.
5. Tire Repair Kit and Portable Air Compressor
A flat tire is one of the most common roadside emergencies. They are happen anywhere. Having a tire repair kit on hand and a portable air compressor will help you fix minor tire punctures and reinflate tires. This should at least get you to your nearest tire shop for a replacement.
While we are talking about tires don’t forget about:
6. A spare tire with wheel wrench, and tripod jack
If you aren’t able to patch and inflate your tire, you’ll need to put on a spare. Having this readily available in your trunk, along with a jack and wrench, will save you a load of trouble and get you moving again quickly.
Some other important items to have in your roadside emergency kit include:
7. Tool kit or Multi-Tool
8. Blankets or Emergency Sleeping Bags
9. Non-Perishable Food and Water
10. Portable Phone Charger
11. Duct Tape
12. Fire Extinguisher
13. Emergency Contacts
Being prepared for emergencies on the road is not only prudent but can also be lifesaving. By assembling a comprehensive emergency kit for your vehicle and ensuring it's regularly maintained and updated, you're equipping yourself with the necessary tools and resources to handle unexpected situations with confidence. If you are looking to build or update your emergency roadside kit, we can help! At LAND Auto Center we have several items to help build the perfect kit for your vehicle. We also have some premade kits, to make your life a little easier. Remember, proactive preparation today can make all the difference tomorrow. Stay safe out there!