Many different types of emergencies can happen on the road. You may have come across a pothole, or your car may have run out of gas. It’s never too early to be prepared for any situation. Car breakdown kits are essential for ensuring you’re safe in an emergency. They should contain items to provide immediate assistance, as well as supplies to keep you going until you can find Gresham towing. This post will give you some ideas on what might be inside your kit and how to put it together.
1. Safety Items
A first aid kit is one of the most important items in any kit. These kits should contain bandages and adhesive tape, along with antibiotic ointment, antiseptic wipes, a burn cream, and a CPR mask. Also include an emergency blanket. This will help protect you from heat, cold, and rain until you get to safety. This item will also enable you to stop someone who has just had a heart attack safely.
2. Spare tire and jack
The spare wheel is one of the most valuable tools you could carry on your vehicle. If you have a flat tire, this will save you time and money by not having to go into town to buy a new wheel. The spare wheel should be inflated, so make sure there’s air in the pump before leaving. When inflating tires, always use the recommended pressure gauge.
3. Mobile phone charger / Radio
If you lose power during a journey, you don’t want to rely on the radio to tell you what’s happening around you. Always carry a mobile phone charger, allowing you to charge your handset whenever needed. Ideally, this would be plugged into the cigarette lighter, but if this isn’t possible, it needs to be charged using the 12-volt system found under the dashboard. A good portable CB radio is another great tool worth carrying. This enables you to call for help or let people know where you are when you cannot speak.
4. Empty fuel carrier
You should also take a fuel canister with you wherever you drive; however, limitations include size and weight. Make sure the container you choose fits comfortably within your boot space. A fully-loaded fuel canister will weigh around 45 lbs, becoming problematic once you start driving off-road. Larger containers often have more than enough room for a full petrol tank. Choose one that contains an adequate amount of fuel because you won’t know exactly how much you need to fill up until you reach your destination.
5. Warm clothes and a waterproof coat
In addition to an emergency kit, you should pack warm clothing when planning a long trip. In extreme cases, such as snowstorms or heavy rain, these items will ensure that you remain comfortable during the journey. You should also make sure any coats and jackets you bring contain reflective material. This allows drivers following behind you to see you more easily in low-light conditions.
6. Fire extinguisher
You should carry a fire extinguisher, ideally a self-contained unit, to prevent fire incidents. Some vehicles already contain them, but they can still prove useful when dealing with electrical fires, battery explosions, or other issues. When traveling alone, keep your extinguisher close to hand in case of a sudden blaze.
7. Spare screen wash, a scraper, and de-icer
Spare screens are essential when driving long distances. However, they may break down due to road damage or mechanical faults. Make sure you carry all necessary parts in your kit, including a scraper, bottle of cleaner, and a de-icer. Your scraper will enable you to clear away dirt without damaging your screen. The de-icer can dry out the surface, ready for cleaning. Cleaning screens yourself will save you a lot of money and help avoid unnecessary repairs.
