Even the most well-maintained cars can run into issues, whether from bad weather, vehicle problems, other drivers, etc. We can never predict when you might find yourself stranded or in an emergency, but we can prepare for such events.
Preparing for emergencies can ease your peace of mind knowing that you are fully stocked for any disaster or stressful situation. Keeping your passengers safe is essential when you share the road. By keeping an emergency preparedness kit that can allow you and others to survive on your own for a few days, you can avoid stress and anxiety in the event of an emergency.
Building an Emergency Preparedness Kit for Your Car
Preparing an emergency preparedness kit often involves everyday household items you already have, including:
- Enough water for a few days. We recommend at least one gallon per person per day; however, you may need more to keep things sanitized or to clean wounds.
- Enough non-perishable food and snacks to tide you over if you are stuck somewhere.
- Extra batteries
- Flashlight
- First aid kit
- Flares and whistle to alert other drivers
- Maps of the area
- Tool kit with tools that can change a tire or charge a battery. You should also include scissors and pliers
- Duct tape and mylar sheeting for a makeshift shelter
- Garbage bags
- Cell phone charger- If you have an old cell phone you no longer use, keep it charged and in your car. All cell phones can call emergency services, regardless of being tied to a plan. If your current phone is no longer working, you can use your backup emergency phone
- Prescription medications if you or a passenger needs to take medicine regularly
- At least $20 in cash
- Matches or lighter
- Warm blanket
- Umbrella or raincoat in case you need to stand in the rain
Try to keep all your items packed together in a water-proof bag or container. A duffel bag is perfect and handy as an emergency supply kit.
Avoiding Common Road Hazards
No matter how defensive of a driver you may be, there are many road hazards that can be dangerous, including heavy traffic, speeding or reckless drivers, bad weather, road work, playing children, animals, potholes, and more.
You can avoid congestion and other accidents by maintaining a safe distance from other cars. Always allow enough room to fully break suddenly if needed.
Don’t wholly trust traffic lights. Sometimes other drivers may blow through a red light, so it’s good to pause before driving through an intersection.
By staying aware of road conditions, weather conditions, and other drivers, you can avoid common road hazards.
If your car suddenly breaks down, make sure to pull off to the shoulder and mark your vehicle with flares and emergency lights. It’s vital that your vehicle is visible to others.
Finally, call for assistance. Let police or responders know how to reach you and if there is an emergency. Let a family and friend also know about your situation and location.
You can protect yourself and others around you by being prepared and safe, even during bad conditions.
SOS Food Lab: What you’ll want in your emergency road kit!
Whether you travel by car, RV, motorcycle or even plane, our emergency supplies are a must-have for anyone looking to be prepared for the worst-case.
SOS Food Lab not only provides 5 year-fresh water pouches and food rations, we also carry convenient thermal blankets too that help you retain up to 98% of your body heat!
Explore our store and contact us if you have any questions about our USA Made survival products.
