Emergencies on the Road and What You Should Have in Your Car

You never know when an emergency will occur.  With the winter season approaching it is best to be prepared.  Here are a few things you should have tucked away in the trunk of your car.

Water - At least 2-3 bottles tucked away in case your car breaks down, you have something to soothe your thirst.

Food - Not a meal but something along the lines of a package of jerky, a box of energy bars, a box of pop tarts, etc - you get the idea.

Blanket(s) - You should have a blanket or even a sleeping bag for as many people that normally ride in your car or as many seats that you have.  I say this because if you are driving and you have front bucket seats you will want a blanket for yourself, one for the passenger, and then at least on for the backseat, unless you have a Suburban or Excusion - then you have more seats to worry about.  Usually more than one child can huddle together under a blanket.

Clothes - If you live in an area where the weather can change on the flip of a coin, then it is best to always have a coat or if you're a female a pair of jogging pants in the car.  This way if you have to walk, you have pants that can easily be put on and taken off (I say this from wearing dresses and having to walk from a parking garage several blocks away).

First Aid Kit - What can I say, you never know when something is going to happen.  Especially if you have kids or friends.

Road Flares - If your car does break down, especially at night, you don't want to be hit by a passing motorist.  The flares will let them know your car is there on the side of a road.

Flashlight - It is always good to have a flashlight handy.  Just be sure and check the batteries!

Anti-Freeze - Now is the best time to make sure you have coolant.  True story,  I just bought some for my car last Saturday, decided to check it just in case and ended up adding half of the jug.  I was low.  I keep it in my trunk.

Washer Fluid - It is always good to keep this in your car so that you can add it as needed.

Brake Fluid - Now is also a good time to check brake fluid and keep some on hand.

Oil - Find out what kind your car takes and keep at least 2 quarts spare in your car.

Fuses -  It's always good to keep extra's on hand.

Fix-A-Flat - Just in case.

Duct Tape - Has been known to mend a hose long enough to get you to a place of safety.

WD-40 - Just in case.

Now is also a good time to check all of your lights and your wiper blades to make sure they are in working order.

FYI - I keep all the fluids in a small square laundry basket in the trunk of my car.  I can't stand things rolling around in the back and I would hate for one of them to spill.