Getting your car ready for winter can seem like a daunting task. Between all of the snow tire recommendations, the check-ups at the mechanic, and the regular maintenance and cleaning, things can seem overwhelming. However, one of the most important things you can do is put together a car emergency kit. Learning how to create your own car emergency kit can be a blessing. It?s more than just adding something else to you to-do list?a car emergency kit can potentially save lives. Winter brings cold and icy road conditions, which mean you are more likely to have car difficulties or get in an accident and have to weight for help in freezing conditions.
Creating a car emergency kit is essential and not very difficult?here?s how to do it in five easy steps.
How To Create Your Own Car Emergency Kit
- Check your inventory. You probably already have a few emergency essentials in your car, so gather them together in one place to see what is useful and what needs to be thrown out. Make sure the items you are keeping are still functioning and aren?t past their expiration dates.
- Make a list. Next, make a list of other things to add to your emergency kit. The complete list will vary based on your local climate, but here is a general list of things that should be included in a well-stocked car emergency kit:
- Flashlight and batteries
- Small brush and ice scraper
- First aid kit
- Cell phone charger and battery adapter
- Water and snacks (trail mix, protein bars, etc.)
- Tire chains and rope
- Sand and road salt for traction
- Emergency flares and reflectors
- Booster cables
- Blankets or sleeping bag
- Extra winter gear (coats, hats, socks, gloves, etc.)
- Go shopping. With your list compiled, it?s time to go shopping. Try to find items that are in condensed packages so they won?t take up as much room in the car.
- Put it in your car. While it?s helpful to keep your entire emergency kit together for easy access, you should be at least a few of the essentials in the passenger glove box in case the trunk is jammed or inaccessible during an emergency. You can put larger items, like a blanket or coat, under the seats so they are out of the way.
- Get the rest of the car ready. Be sure to keep at least a half tank of gas at all times, and check to make sure your lights and windshield wipers are functioning properly.
Whether you have a used car or newly bought car, you hope to never use a winter car emergency kit, but taking the time to prepare one can be incredibly beneficial when you?re faced with a roadside emergency.
What are some other items you would include if you were to create your own car emergency kit?
