A typical day of driving could quickly turn into an unfortunate situation. Sometimes, drivers face minor annoyances, while other times, they deal with emergencies. That’s why you need to put helpful items in a tote to keep in your vehicle.
Added Protection As a Driver
Unfortunately, vehicle emergencies are common. Therefore, you want to prepare just in case something happens while driving. Whether that entails a flat tire after running over something or sliding on a snow-covered road into a ditch. Here are some things that you should always have in your car.
Jumper Cables
You can use these for your vehicle, as well as to help out other drivers. To make things easier, buy a 25-foot jumper cable. That way, it will be long enough if batteries don’t line up or your car goes off the road at an odd angle.
Flares or Reflective Lights
Both flares and reflective lights help other drivers see your car. That reduces the risk of someone hitting your vehicle. At the same time, they show you need help. You’ll want to put them at the back of your vehicle and roughly 3 feet toward the road.
Mobile Phone Charger
During an emergency, you’d need a way to contact someone. For that reason, keep an extra phone charger in your vehicle. To keep the battery full, most phone chargers fit into a USB port. However, solar-powered chargers also exist.
First-Aid Kit
Again, this could help you, a passenger in your car, or someone else with minor injuries. Rather than buy a kit made for home use, choose one specifically for vehicles. It contains everything you need for a minor or moderate incident.
Spare Tire and Car Jack
Depending on the year and make of the car you drive, it may have a full-sized spare tire or simply a donut. If possible, invest in a full-sized tire. Along with that, keep a jack in your car, one that’s easy for you to use.
Bottled Water and Nonperishable Food
It’s also a good idea to keep a case of bottled water and nonperishable food items in your car. Some examples include beef jerky, nuts, granola bars, and dried fruit. You certainly don’t want to find yourself stranded without these items.
Car Necessities
In addition, keep a new container of windshield wiper fluid, oil, and coolant in your vehicle. Along with those items, put a toolkit in the tote.
Things to Keep You Warm
Especially during the winter, you’ll want to have things in your car that’ll keep you warm. For example, you need blankets, warm winter clothes, and heavy socks. Also, toss in a good pair of hiking boots just in case you have to walk for help.
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Better Safe Than Sorry
Don’t risk yourself or your passengers by not having these items in your car. And if you drive an unreliable vehicle, it’s time to upgrade. Even for a new automobile, be sure it’s serviced regularly. That’s where the experts at Barker Buick GMC in Houma, Louisiana, can assist.