A roadside emergency can happen at any time, whether your car is new or old. A range
of problems can cause it, from a tire failure or mechanical breakdown to running
out of fuel. At best, it's an annoyance; at worst, it can compromise your safety.
Being prepared with a basic emergency kit can increase your safety, reduce stress,
and help you get back on the road faster.
Even if you have roadside-assistance coverage or an automobile-club membership with
roadside assistance, you usually need access to a phone in order to contact them
and you may have to wait on the side of the road for an hour or more before help
arrives. That's why we recommend that drivers carry certain items in their vehicle,
even if it only gets used for everyday, around-town driving. This basic kit can
be supplemented with additional items if you go on a long-distance trip or have
to deal with winter weather conditions.
It's also important to make periodic checks on the equipment to ensure it's in working
order--that the spare tire is properly inflated, batteries are not discharged, first-aid
supplies are current, water is fresh, and food is dry. In addition, be familiar
with how each tool works, from the cellular phone to the jack, before you need to
use it in an emergency.
BASIC KIT
This kit is intended to aid you in getting help, signaling your car's presence to
other motorists, and tackling simple challenges.
Cellular phone. We don't recommend that you talk on a cell phone while driving,
but in an emergency, this can be the single most valuable component of your kit.
Keep a car charger handy. This device plugs into the cigarette lighter or other
power point in the car and charges the battery of your cell phone. When traveling,
it's best to leave your cell phone on and, if applicable, leave the retractable
antenna extended. This may shorten the time it takes you to reach 911, if necessary.
Emergency tip: If you have to dial 911, remember that your location and phone number
aren't always available to an emergency operator when calling from a cell phone.
So give the operator your number and any information you have about your location.
Ignore any "no service" messages on the phone and try the call anyway. If you have
trouble connecting to 911 from inside a car, get out if possible and call from the
side of the road. That may help you get a better signal.
First-aid kit. Choose one that allows you to treat a range of problems, from small
cuts or burns to ones that require major bandaging. We also suggest you get familiar
with how to use the kit before you need to.
Fire extinguisher. A car fire can start from something as simple as a wiring short
circuit or leaking oil. You should get away from a vehicle that's on fire as quickly
as possible. Still, for extra security it's good to keep a fire extinguisher in
the car that can be used in any emergency or to quickly dose a small flame that's
just begun. The quicker a fire can be put out, the less damage it will cause. Multipurpose
dry-chemical fire extinguishers are available in a variety of sizes. We recommend
carrying a compact unit that's labeled 1A10BC or 2A10BC.
Warning light, hazard triangle, or flares. If your vehicle is stuck on the side
of the road, it's vital that you give other motorists as much warning of its presence
as possible, especially at night. Look for a battery-powered warning light that
can be placed far from the vehicle. Reflective hazard triangles and flares are also
effective and don't need batteries.
Tire gauge. This should be used on a monthly basis to check the inflation pressure
in all four tires and the spare tire. Because the ambient temperature affects tire
pressure, it's also advisable to check the pressure after a significant change in
temperature.
Jack and lug wrench. Almost all vehicles come with these items for changing a tire.
Refer to your owner's manual on where they're located in the vehicle and how to
use them. Models that come with run-flat tires do not have a spare tire. Run-flat
tires can be driven a limited number of miles with little or no air in them. They
have very stiff sidewalls, which provide support when the tire is deflated. Click
here to learn more about the warning signs of imminent tire failure.
Foam tire sealant or a portable compressor and plug kit. For minor punctures, a
foam tire sealant can get your vehicle back on the road quickly. Only use it in
an emergency, however, as many tire shops will refuse to repair the tire because
of the sticky residue these sealants leave inside it. Be sure to choose a sealant
that's labeled as non-flammable, and don't consider this a permanent fix. A portable
DC-powered air compressor can also be used to inflate a tire--and is especially
handy for one that suffers from a slow leak. To fix a puncture, however, you need
to have it professionally repaired.
Spare fuses. If you experience an electrical problem, your first check should be
for a burned-out fuse. These are easy to check and replace by referring to your
owner's manual. Keep an assortment on hand of the proper type for your vehicle.
Jumper cables or a portable battery booster. Jumper cables are easy to use as long
as you have a second car available to provide a jump. Refer to your owner's manual
for instructions. A portable battery booster eliminates the need for a second car.
Flashlight. This can be critical at night. Choose one that is bright and weatherproof.
In addition, a flashlight with a magnet, flexible mounting system, or a stand will
free up your hands for other tasks. Also, have extra batteries and a bulb available.
Gloves, hand cleaner, and clean rags. Even the simplest jobs can get your hands
dirty. Having these on hand will help keep that dirt from getting on your clothes
or your vehicle's interior.
Auto-club card or roadside-assistance number. If you belong to an auto club or roadside-assistance
program, be sure you have the necessary information in your vehicle.
Disposable flash camera. Following an accident, this lets you record the condition
of your vehicle and other vehicles for insurance purposes.
$20 in small bills and change. Keep this available for miscellaneous use. And resist
dipping into it for a spontaneous ice cream cone on a hot day.
Pen and pad of paper. This can come in handy for a range of uses, from leaving a
note on the windshield should you have to leave your car to jotting down information
after an accident.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR LONG-DISTANCE DRIVING
For long trips, especially those through remote areas, add these items to your basic
emergency kit.
Basic tools. This includes a set of socket and open-end wrenches, a multi-tip screwdriver,
and pliers. This should be enough to perform simple jobs such as changing a lightbulb,
tightening battery cables, and so on. Even if you don't know what to do, a Good
Samaritan will still need something to work with.
Coolant hose repair kit and tape. A leaking coolant hose can sideline your vehicle
quickly and possibly cause engine damage from overheating. Often, a leaking hose
is a simple fix if you have the right items. They can be bought at any major auto-parts
store.
Extra clothes and small tarin. Even if all you do is change a tire, these items
can help keep your regular clothes clean.
Water and nonperishable emergency food. Bring enough food and water to sustain you
and any passengers for at least a meal, longer for remote areas or in extreme hot/cold
regions.
CB radio. If your route will take you into an area where cellular service is spotty,
consider a portable or in-car CB radio.
GPS navigation system. This is an optional item, but good to have when traveling
to new places.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR WINTER DRIVING
For the cold, wet conditions of winter, you may need additional items in your emergency
kit, especially if you travel in remote areas or in severe conditions.
Windshield scraper. Good visibility is your most important safety item, but persistent
snow and ice can build up quickly and make it hard to see. A long-handled, soft-bristled
brush can also come in handy.
Tire chains and tow strap. Familiarize yourself with how to put the chains on your
vehicle's tires or attach a tow strap before you need to do it in cold and possibly
dark conditions.
Blanket and winter hat. If you run out of fuel or if your battery dies, the vehicle
won't be able to provide heat. A blanket and hat can help keep you warm if you have
to wait for a long time in cold conditions.
Chemical hand warmers. These small, inexpensive packets are available at ski shops
and sporting-goods stores.
Small folding shovel. If you get stuck in snow, this can be a vital tool. A folding
camping-style shovel will require more digging effort than a longer-handled shovel,
but is more convenient to store in the vehicle.
Bag of cat litter. This can help provide some traction on an especially slick road
surface.