13 Feb When Was the Last Time You Updated Your Roadside Emergency Kit? Here’s What to Put in Yours
Whether you are in an accident or your car breaks down, being prepared with an emergency roadside kit in your vehicle can make a world of difference when you are stranded on the side of the road. Have you updated your roadside kit recently? Materials in your kit can wear down or go bad over time, so it’s essential to check your kit once every six months or so to make sure it’s ready to use. Here’s what you should include in your emergency kit.
Visibility Gear
One of the most important things to do when your car is stuck on the side of the road is to make sure that it is easily seen by other drivers. Stock your kit with flares or reflective triangles, a flashlight (check the batteries periodically and keep extras on hand), and a reflective vest to wear if you need to exit your vehicle.
Car Repair Tools
Some situations may allow you to make a quick fix to your vehicle so that you can drive to an auto repair shop safely for more complete repairs. For example, a dead battery, flat tire, or loose/leaky hoses can be quickly patched and then further repaired by your mechanic. Keep tools like a spare tire, jack, and lug wrench, along with a battery jump pack or jumper cables, multi-tool, and duct tape or cable ties on hand. You should also include a pair of work gloves to protect your hands while making any quick repairs.
Personal Comfort Items
Your emergency roadside kit should have you prepared for any weather conditions with a rain poncho, blanket, cooling towels, and portable fans. You should also have other items for your personal comfort if you end up stranded in a remote area where it may take a tow truck a long time to reach you. Keep bottled water, non-perishable snacks, and a deck of cards in your roadside kit. Check consumables every few months to make sure they’re not expired. Of course, a first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, disposable gloves, and tweezers is also important to keep handy.
Cell Phone Charger
Your cell phone may be your most important tool if you get in an accident or have another type of roadside emergency. Make sure that you have a phone charger that does not rely on your vehicle power, like a rechargeable power bank so that you can keep your phone on when you need it most.
If you are in a minor car accident or a major collision in Tucson, count on National Auto Collision Centers for collision repair at one of our three convenient body repair shop locations. Our certified technicians can get your vehicle back to pre-accident condition, and our friendly and knowledgeable staff can assist with arranging a tow truck, vehicle rental, and negotiating with your insurance company. Contact us today to get started with your auto body repair services.