Being prepared for any type of situation when I am out on the road is something I have always done. Emergency kits have come in handy so many times before and I will continue to carry one based on the season in my vehicle. East Hills Chevrolet wants to remind you that it is now time to update your emergency kit from warmer weather to a colder weather kit. Certain items are certainly not needed in the summer that are needed in the winter.
Your basic emergency kit should have these items and anything else that you think that your family will need if you become stranded.
Jumper cables are something you should have just in case of anything. I have been known to have my kids press a light and leave it on which killed my battery. Jumper cables have saved my life so many times. You can also carry a small, portable, lithium-ion battery with jumper cables. If you go the route of having the battery you need to make sure it is charged.
Flares or triangle reflectors. LED flares are also an option worth considering. You want people to be able to see you if you have broken down or need assistance. Not having these things can make it so that another accident could occur from someone not realizing you are there.
A couple other smaller items that you may want to have on hand are: a quart or more of motor oil and a gallon of coolant. You never know when something may go wrong with these vital fluids. Instead of having to track down a store to replace them having them on hand helps!
A first-aid kit seems like a no-brainer. You can purchase one that is already put together and then add to it if need be. I know that I like to stick meds in case we are to get stranded. I never just travel with just the right amount of medications on hand.
Especially during cooler weather a blanket or space blanket will do the most good to keep warm. You will want to make sure that there are enough for everyone with you. So this may need to be changed for each trip based on that.
Other smaller items you will want to have are: flashlight and extra batteries; tool kit with screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench, pocket knife; a can of tire inflator and sealant such as Fix-a-Flat; tire pressure gauge; paper towels; spray bottle with washer fluid; ice scraper (if you live in an area with snow); pen and paper; granola or energy bars and bottled water. All of these smaller items can come in handy for something that just may need a quick fix when it comes to tools. When it comes to the pen and paper, being able to make a sign may also aid you in getting help to you more quickly. Of course, the granola bars and water are to keep you sustained while you wait.
Keeping these items in your trunk even in a cardboard box will assure that they are not just rolling around and getting jumbled. You will need to know where everything is in a time of emergency to make things go more smoothly. Familiarize yourself with everything and also anyone travelling with you. Being prepared is all you can do and just hope there never comes a time to use it.
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