What Should I Have in My Car Emergency Kit?

We often fail to prepare for emergencies. In one sense, emergencies are unpredictable in both the nature of what may occur and in the timing. However, you can be sure that at some point your car will break down on the side of the road. Having a good emergency kit can make getting back on the road happen quickly. It may even help you avoid a serious incident that could jeopardize your health and safety and that of the other passengers with you. Texas weather can be unpredictable – make sure you’re prepared for any emergency.

Our cars are generally reliable transportation for getting from Point A to Point B. However, from time to time a car will break down, causing an emergency.

A flat tire can put you on the side of a busy road – not a safe situation. The sooner you can get back on the road, the safer you will be. For something as simple as a flat, having a spare can get you going quickly. Check your spare frequently to ensure it has enough air and is ready to go in case you need it.

The Texas heat can take a major toll on any vehicle. Overheating is one of the most common causes of a breakdown. Having extra fluids on hand can help get you going again or prevent a major engine breakdown. A quart of oil, a gallon of water, and antifreeze mixture can help ensure your vehicle stays cool and on the road.

This gray tape is famous for being able to repair almost any problem. A small amount of duct tape can temporarily solve some problems. It can temporarily seal hoses with small leaks; it can, for a short time, secure parts in danger of falling off; there is almost no end of uses for this versatile product.

Almost everyone has accidentally run down the battery on their vehicle. A pair of jumper cables can get your vehicle started again quickly if someone comes along and is willing to help. You might even consider upgrading to a jump starter that provides the cables and the power to crank the engine.

From freak ice storms, thunderstorms, tornadoes, and even the occasional hurricane threat, Texas weather can create conditions that will put your car out of commission.

One of the most important items to carry in your emergency kit is a good flashlight. When problems take place in the dark, a flashlight can help you see to fix them and get going again as well as make you more visible to passing motorists, so you can avoid an accident.

The only thing worse than trying to change a flat tire on the side of the road is trying to change the flat in the rain. In colder weather, this can be even more important, as staying dry can prevent you from becoming dangerously cold.

In the winter, a breakdown at the wrong time may leave you stranded for hours while waiting for help. Having a warm blanket for each of the occupants can spell the difference between an inconvenience and something far worse.

In addition to items to help you handle a breakdown or problems from inclement weather, you should include some items to help people involved in difficulties or with injuries.

Minor scrapes, cuts, and burns are common after accidents as well as from trying to loosen the lug nuts on your flat tire. Having a first aid kit can help after minor injuries that are just part of the normal course of life.

Breaking down in a Texas summer can quickly become a dangerous situation if you have no water to drink. If you are stuck waiting for help, you can become dehydrated in as little as an hour during even a moderate heat wave. Having some water on hand will keep you safer and ensure you can think clearly during your emergency.

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