There are certain essential items every driver should keep in their car in case of malfunction, injury or other unexpected problems. A driver that is prepared for any crisis will be able to keep themselves and their passengers safer.
Distilled Water
A supply of distilled water kept in your vehicle serves two emergency purposes. First, if you and your passengers are stuck stranded for several hours, even warm distilled water will keep dehydration at bay until assistance or rescue arrives. Also, distilled water can be used to top off and cool down your radiator if it begins to show signs of overheating.
First Aid Kit
From minor cuts and scrapes to more serious medical emergencies, a first aid kit is essential for handling injuries while you are traveling. A fully stocked first aid kit should include bandages, sterile gauze, antiseptic cleansing pads, medical tape and burn cream. Keep the first aid kit in your car where it can be easily accessed by passengers or you once you have safely pulled over.
Owner’s Manual
Many people remove the owner’s manual from their cars glove compartment to make room for other less essential items. What you need to know about your owner’s manual is that it contains information, recommendations and how-to instructions that can be helpful in the event of a mechanical issue. The kind of motor oil your car needs, a guide to warning lights and their meanings and the specifications of the tires your car uses are some of the information included in an owner’s manual.
Multipurpose Tool
A tool kit is handy to keep in the trunk of your car if you are comfortable handling small repairs while traveling. For more everyday tasks that may come up while you are driving, a single multipurpose tool can take over for most of what would be in a larger took kit. A multipurpose tool often combines a small utility knife, screwdriver and other essential tools in a single easily stowed item.
Jumper Cables
One of the most essential items to always have in your car is a set of jumper cables. Most drivers will at some point leave their lights on and wear their car’s batteries down. Instead of calling a tow truck, a set of jumper cables kept in your car can jumpstart your engine.
The items above are very important to keep in your car for safe and prepared driving habits. These items can keep a small problem from becoming an emergency situation.
*Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
