Emergency Kits – Safety and Survival Items to Keep in your Vehicle
Every vehicle on the road should have an emergency kit in the backseat or trunk. These kits contain important safety tools and survival items that can be used in the event of an accident or emergency. If you do not currently have one in your vehicle, consider purchasing one today. These kits also make great gifts for new or experienced drivers.In addition to meeting the basic survival needs of food and water, there are many other items to include in automobile emergency kits. Every vehicle should have at least one blanket to keep you warm if you are stranded in cold weather.
In addition, it is important to include jumper cables, flares, a revolving light, a reflecting triangle and a distress banner. If you live in a climate with snow or ice, you may want to consider including an ice scraper, hand warmers, a compact shovel and a bag of cat litter for traction in case you get stuck in the snow. A can of air can be used to inflate a tire so that you are able to get your vehicle to a service station. Other safety items to put in your kit include a safety vest, a utility knife, a device to break your window, gloves, a flashlight, duct tape, a screwdriver, a wrench and other common tools.
Drivers should also put basic first aid supplies in their auto emergency kits. An assortment of adhesive bandages should be included, along with butterfly bandages and gauze pads. Ointment for cuts and burns are also an important component of an auto first aid kit, as well as antiseptic wipes and antibacterial sanitizer. It is also a good idea to include pain relievers, antacids, gloves and any medication you take on a regular basis. Finally, many people also include cash in their vehicle kits. This can be used to purchase gas, food or other supplies needed in an emergency situation. Also, always include a cell phone and change that can be used to make calls at a pay phone. A cell phone charger is another good idea, along with spare batteries that can be used in a flashlight or other appliance.
In addition to food and water, the items included in vehicle emergency kits can be lifesaving tools in an emergency situation. Every driver on the road should take the time to create or purchase an emergency kit for their vehicle that includes these important items.
