You’ve heard about Go Bags and Emergency Supply Kits (sometimes called Stay Boxes)—but have you thought about having a mini kit in your car? If roads are shut down due to a disaster or severe accident, having a few basic items on hand can keep you safe and comfortable until help arrives.
Basic Supplies
A basic emergency kit can make a big difference. Pack essentials to stay warm and hydrated, and include a flashlight to ensure visibility if you need to exit your vehicle at night.
- Jacket
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Small bottled water
- Cell phone charger/battery pack
In wildfire-prone areas, take extra precautions:
- Carry a fire extinguisher in your car and familiarize yourself with its use.
- Avoid parking on dry grass or brush. Hot exhaust pipes and mufflers can ignite fires that may go unnoticed—until it’s too late.
Additional Items to Consider
If you find yourself needing to self-rescue or seek assistance, having these items in your car can make a difference. Being prepared can turn a challenging situation into a manageable one.
- First Aid Kit
- Jumper Cables
- Portable Tire Inflator
- Flares or reflective triangles
- Reflective vest
- Ice scraper
- Blanket
- Map
Car Safety Tips
Source: ready.gov
- Keep your gas tank full in case of evacuation or power outages. A full tank will also keep the fuel line from freezing.
- Install good winter tires and make sure they have enough tread, or any chains or studs required in your local area.
- Do not drive through flooded areas. Six inches of water can cause a vehicle to lose control or possibly stall. A foot of water will float many cars.
- Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
- If a power line falls on your car you are at risk of electrical shock. Stay inside until a trained person removes the wire.
- If it becomes hard to control the car, pull over, stop the car and set the parking brake.
- If the emergency could affect the stability of the roadway avoid overpasses, bridges, power lines, signs and other hazards.
