With cooler weather on the way, it's a great time to start thinking about emergency equipment for your vehicle. I drive an older vehicle and tend to have more break downs and other issues. I have learned the hard way the importance of being prepared.
Here are some basics that I keep in my vehicle at all times...This kit contains most of these items and comes with a carrying bag!
-a quart of oil (I try to check my pull level when I had up...leaks can spring up without notice)
-at least a gallon of water (for the radiator or for people in case we get stranded somewhere) and a gallon of radiator coolant
-jumper cables (and a connector cheat sheet for connecting them correctly) or portable vehicle battery charger
-basic first aid kit
-flashlight (this is a great one that is rechargeable, has a charging port to charge other items, window breaking tool, alarm, strobe light and seat belt cutter)
-window breaking tool in case you can't get out of your vehicle
-seat belt cutting tool
-basic tools such as screw drivers, pliers, wrenches, rags, etc. Even if you may not be mechanical, if someone stops to help you, they may need them.
-emergency blankets, plastic ponchos, for bad weather
-emergency food such as nuts, energy/granola bars and dried fruit in pest proof containers
-cell phone car charger (even an old cell phone with a charger that can be left in your emergency kit since you can still dial 911 from old phones)
-gloves (for keeping your hands clean or warm)
-air pressure gauge to check tire pressure
-compass, whistle, matches, object to hide emergency money or valuables in like this one, etc.
-personal protection devices such as pepper spray, self defense tools like these
Here are some more things that you may want to consider keeping in your car...(I still need to get these!)
-no spill gas can
-fuses
-small, folding shovel
-car fire extinguisher
-flares or glowsticks
-flat tire inflation canister (non-explosive)
-duct tape
-towing strap or chain
-hand sanitizer, towels, trash bags, etc.
-GPS device, solar powered battery bank, battery powered or hand crank radio
Although this list seems long, many of these items are small and can be combined in a fairly small bag or backpack. Other items could be combined into a small tote type container. Here's to hoping we never have to use many of these items but it's still good to have them on hand just in case!
As you can see, there are sponsored products from Damsel In Defense. I am a consultant with Damsel and am offering 10% off your first order (as a refund through pay pal or a check). Many of these products come with a guarantee with proof of purchase. If you place an order, send a copy of your receipt to me at traci.m.allen@gmail.com and I will be in touch regarding your refund.
