5 Things You Should Always Keep In Your Car
Nobody likes breaking down. It’s annoying and happens at the worst times. Fortunately, car-related issues are typically solved quickly, and, maybe after a few choice words, you’re on your way again. But, what happens if your car stops working during a huge blizzard, or you get stuck in the middle of nowhere? Car related emergencies are not only stressful, they can be dangerous.
Preparing for these emergencies can make the situation safer, easier to fix, and a lot less stressful. In case of an accident, breakdown, or other emergency, keeping these 5 key items in your car can help you stay safe and comfortable.
- Paper Maps
In the old days, before Google Maps, road maps were printed on paper. It wasn’t uncommon to see people in their cars with a big map spread out over the dashboard, figuring out the best route to take. Today, if there is no power source, your phone or navigation system eventually stops working, and then, you’re lost. Having a paper map in your glovebox can be a lifesaver, especially for road trips where the roads are unfamiliar. - First aid kit
First aid kits are more than just Band-Aids and rubbing alcohol. Good kits contain many useful items you don’t have with you all the time, like; various adhesive bandages, arm slings, rubber gloves, gauze, medical tape, scissors, and more. Have a headache while camping? Check your kit for some meds. Did little Timmy trip and scrape himself on aunt Edna’s gravel driveway even though you told him to stop running, like, a hundred times? You can patch him up while telling him “I told you so”. - Food and water
I remember watching some show where two people were stranded in their car with only a box of Oreos between them. Although delicious, cookies are definitely not enough to survive on if you’re stuck for an extended period of time. Having emergency food and water in your car can be a real lifesaver in serious situations. Non-perishable snacks like granola bars, dried fruit, nuts, and crackers will keep in the car and don’t take up much space. Also, make sure the water is stored out of direct sunlight and kept in a non-BPA container. - Extra clothes or blankets
It’s a good idea to have a blanket in the car. Obviously, it’s important if you experience the frigid months of winter, but the blanket can come in handy in many situations, for example; as protection for something fragile, a seat cover, or the base of a romantic picnic. If you’re wearing your favorite skirt, the blanket is your best friend if you have to change a tire. In case you do get your clothes dirty, your extra set of clothes has your back. It might be a good idea to keep a pair of comfortable shoes in the car as well. Having to walk to a gas station in heels might look glamorous, but it hurts. - Jumper cables
Whirr whirr whirr click nothing. We all know that sinking feeling when the car won’t start. The most common reason is a dead battery, and a set of jumper cables can usually fix the problem and have you on your way in no time. It is really important to use jumper cables correctly, so keep instructions in your car, or ask your mechanic for a quick lesson. They’ll be happy to help.
Having an emergency car kit will help keep you and your family as safe as possible. Think of safety-prepping your car like it’s insurance against unforeseen events. It could mean the difference between an inconvenience and a disaster
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