It was a dark and stormy night. The rain was pouring, and wind was howling when Jane’s car suddenly stalled on a deserted highway. She ransacked her handbag but realized that she had left her phone at home. Panic set in as she realized that she was miles away from the city, alone, and with no means of communication. Fast forward to the end of her ordeal, Jane learned a valuable lesson – the importance of keeping essential items in your vehicle at all times. In this article, we will look at what you should keep in your vehicle to be ready for any situation.
The Importance of Being Prepared
Did you know that AAA responds to more than 30 million calls for roadside assistance each year in North America. This staggering statistic underscores the importance of being prepared for any circumstance that might arise while on the road. Whether it’s a flat tire, a dead battery, or a medical emergency, having the right items in your vehicle can make a significant difference.
Real-life scenarios abound where being prepared has saved lives or made difficult situations manageable. For instance, in 2018, a family in Oregon was stranded in heavy snow for 48 hours. Their survival was attributed to the emergency gear they had in their vehicle, including blankets, food, and water. These examples highlight the importance of keeping certain items in your vehicle, not just for your safety, but also for your comfort and convenience.
Essential Safety Items
Safety should always be your priority while driving. Therefore, there are certain items you should always have in your vehicle. These include a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, warning triangles, and a flashlight.
A first aid kit can be crucial in the event of a medical emergency. According to the National Safety Council, a well-stocked first aid kit can help you respond effectively to common injuries and emergencies. The kit should include items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, medical tape, gloves, and a breathing barrier with a one-way valve.
A fire extinguisher is essential to control small fires that might occur in your vehicle.
In the United States alone, over 189,500 highway vehicle fires were reported in 2019, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Therefore, having a fire extinguisher can potentially save your life and your vehicle.
Warning triangles and a flashlight are vital during nighttime emergencies or breakdowns. These items will make your vehicle visible to other road users, reducing the risk of accidents.
In the next part of this series, we’ll continue our discussion on what to keep in your vehicle. We’ll delve into the mechanical tools you should always have, such as a jack, tire iron, jumper cables, and a spare tire. We’ll also discuss comfort and convenience items like blankets, snacks, water bottles, and a phone charger. These items can make a significant difference during unexpected delays or breakdowns. Finally, we’ll look at the survival kit necessary for extreme weather conditions. Stay tuned for more.
Must-Have Mechanical Tools
If you’ve ever found yourself with a flat tire on the side of the highway, you know how daunting it feels to be unprepared. That’s why, right after safety items, mechanical tools are a non-negotiable part of any well-equipped vehicle. Let’s build on what we talked about in Part 1 by walking through the key tools every driver should always have—and how they can save the day.
1. Jack and Tire Iron:
A flat tire is one of the most common roadside issues. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are roughly 220 million flat tires in the United States every year—about seven tire punctures every second. A jack and a tire iron (also called a lug wrench) are essential for changing your tire. Most vehicles come with these tools, but it’s a good idea to check that yours are present, in working order, and that you know how to use them. If you’re unsure, a quick YouTube tutorial or a practice session in your driveway can be a lifesaver.
2. Spare Tire:
It might sound obvious, but many people forget to check if their spare tire is inflated and in good condition. Make it a habit to inspect your spare tire at least twice a year. Remember, some newer cars come with “donut” spares that are only meant for short distances and lower speeds—so know your vehicle’s limitations.
3. Jumper Cables:
A dead battery can happen to anyone, especially in extreme weather. In fact, AAA reports that battery-related problems account for nearly 24% of their roadside assistance calls. Jumper cables (or a portable jump starter) can get you back on the road without waiting hours for help. Just be sure to read your vehicle’s manual or watch an instructional video to familiarize yourself with the correct (and safe) way to jump-start your car.
4. Multipurpose Tool and Duct Tape:
You’d be surprised how many problems can be temporarily solved with a good-quality multipurpose tool (like a Leatherman or Swiss Army Knife) and a roll of duct tape. From tightening a loose battery cable to securing a dangling mirror, these tools are real heroes in a pinch.
Comfort and Convenience Items
Now that we’ve covered the nuts and bolts, let’s talk about the items that won’t fix your car but will absolutely make your life easier if you’re stranded or delayed. Remember Jane from Part 1. Imagine how much more comfortable she would have been if she had these items stashed away.
1. Blankets and Extra Clothing:
If you’re stuck in your car on a chilly night or waiting for help to arrive, a warm blanket can be a lifesaver—not just for comfort, but also for safety if temperatures drop. According to the CDC, more than 1,000 people die each year in the U. due to hypothermia, often because they’re caught unprepared in the cold.
Keep a compact fleece blanket or even a thermal emergency blanket stowed away.
2. Snacks and Water Bottles:
Breakdowns don’t care if it’s mealtime or if you’re in the middle of nowhere. Granola bars, nuts, and bottled water can keep you going if you’re stuck for hours. FEMA recommends keeping at least a three-day supply of water and non-perishable food in your vehicle, especially in regions prone to severe weather or long stretches between towns.
3. Phone Charger (Car Adapter):
In a world where our phones are our lifelines, running out of battery during an emergency can be stressful or even dangerous. Invest in a reliable car charger or a portable power bank. It’s a small, inexpensive item that can make a huge difference.
4. Personal Supplies:
A small stash of personal hygiene items—like tissues, hand sanitizer, and wet wipes—can make unexpected delays far less uncomfortable. If you have kids, extra diapers or wipes are essential.
Survival Kit for Extreme Conditions
While most of us hope we’ll never be stuck in blizzard conditions or stranded in the desert, it’s always better to be prepared for the unexpected. Severe weather events are on the rise, and being ready can be the difference between inconvenience and real danger.
1. Warm Clothing and Hand Warmers:
Keep a set of gloves, a hat, and hand warmers in your car, especially during the winter months. Hypothermia can set in more quickly than you might realize.
2. Non-Perishable Food and Bottled Water:
Pack high-energy, non-perishable snacks (like protein bars or trail mix) and a few bottles of water. According to the National Safety Council, you should replace these items every six months.
3. Emergency Whistle and Reflective Tape:
If you’re stranded in a remote area, an emergency whistle and reflective tape can help rescuers find you.
4. Where to Buy:
You can find pre-made survival kits online (Amazon, Walmart, or your local outdoor store) or put one together yourself. Sites like ready. gov offer excellent checklists so you can customize your kit for your region and needs.
Statistics: The Impact of Being Prepared
To drive home just how vital these supplies are, let’s take a look at some numbers:
- According to AAA, over 69 million vehicle breakdowns occur in the U.
- A survey by Agero found that 60% of drivers have experienced a breakdown at some point, with 40% of those occurring more than five miles from home.
- The National Safety Council estimates that 1 in 3 drivers will face a roadside emergency each year.
- **A 2022 study revealed that drivers who keep emergency kits are 74%
more likely to be able to handle roadside emergencies than those who do not. **
In light of these compelling statistics, it’s clear that drivers should never underestimate the importance of keeping essential items in their vehicles.
Fun Facts Section: 10 Interesting Facts about Roadside Emergencies and Preparedness
- The American Automobile Association (AAA) was founded in 1902, primarily to aid members in roadside emergencies.
- In the United States, flat tires are the most common cause of breakdowns.
- AAA reports that they service over 3. 5 million calls for flat tires annually.
- According to a 2015 survey, 28% of drivers do not know how to change a tire.
- Nearly 30% of new cars do not come with a spare tire, as manufacturers aim to reduce weight and boost fuel efficiency.
- The world record for the fastest tire change is 59. 62 seconds, set by a team of mechanics in India.
- Most car fires start in the engine compartment, with electrical issues being the prime cause.
- According to a report by NHTSA, younger drivers are less likely to carry emergency supplies in their vehicle.
- A poll by the National Safety Council found that 71% of drivers believe they can make it to their destination when the gas light comes on, but it’s not recommended to drive with less than a quarter of a tank.
- In extremely cold weather, it’s possible for car doors to freeze shut. A spray of cooking oil on the rubber seals can prevent this.
Author Spotlight: Peter D’Antonio
Peter D’Antonio has been a mechanic for over 30 years and runs his popular blog, “Pete’s Garage. ” He shares expert advice on car maintenance, driving safety and, of course, what to keep in your vehicle. His articles are known for their practical advice and easy-to-understand language, making automotive knowledge accessible for everyone. Check out his blog post, “The 10 Must-Have Items for Your Car,” where he gives detailed explanations on why each item is essential and his recommendations for the best products.
In the next and final part of this series, we’ll be addressing some of the most common questions about keeping essentials in your vehicle in our FAQ section. Stay tuned for more practical tips on how to be prepared for any situation on the road.
FAQ Section: 10 Common Questions About Keeping Essentials in Your Vehicle
- Q: Why should I keep essentials in my car.
A: You never know when an emergency or breakdown will occur. Keeping essential items in your car can help you handle such situations, ensuring your safety and comfort until help arrives.
- Q: What are the absolute bare minimum items I should keep in my car.
A: The bare minimum items include a spare tire, jack and a tire iron, jumper cables, warning triangles, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
- Q: Should I always have food and water in my car.
A: Yes, it’s a good idea, especially for long trips or in regions with severe weather. Non-perishable snacks and bottled water can sustain you if you’re stranded for an extended period.
- Q: What should I store in my car for winter.
A: In addition to the standard essentials, store warm clothing, gloves, a hat, hand warmers, and a blanket. Snow chains or a snow shovel could also be useful.
- Q: How often should I check the items in my car.
A: At least every six months. Make sure everything is in good condition, and replace any expired or damaged items.
- Q: Where can I learn how to use these tools.
A: YouTube has numerous tutorials on using automotive tools. Practice using them so you’re comfortable in case of a real emergency.
- Q: Is it necessary to keep a fire extinguisher in my car.
A: Yes. Vehicle fires are more common than you might think, and a fire extinguisher can help control a small fire before it becomes unmanageable.
- Q: What items should I keep in my car if I have children.
A: If you have children, consider keeping extra diapers, wipes, snacks, and entertainment items like books or games.
- Q: Do all these items take up a lot of space.
A: Not necessarily. Many items are compact or can be stored in the trunk. Prioritize and customize based on your needs and vehicle size.
- Q: Is it costly to keep all these items in my car.
A: Many items are relatively inexpensive, and the potential benefit of having them in an emergency far outweighs the cost.
In the New King James Version (NKJV) Bible, Proverbs 27:12 says, “A prudent man foresees evil and hides himself; The simple pass on and are punished. ” This verse reiterates the importance of being prepared for potential problems. In terms of driving, this preparation includes keeping essential items in your car at all times.
I would like to thank Peter D’Antonio, an experienced mechanic and author of the blog “Pete’s Garage. ” His insights and expertise greatly contributed to this series. His blog includes practical tips on maintaining your vehicle and preparing for roadside emergencies.
In conclusion, it’s clear that keeping certain essentials in your vehicle is not just a good idea—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re dealing with a minor inconvenience like a flat tire or a major emergency, these items can make a difference. By preparing your car, you’re also preparing yourself for any situation that may come your way while on the road. So take the time to stock your vehicle with these essentials. And remember, it’s better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.