How to Prepare for Emergencies When You Are Out on the Road

Whether it's bad weather, a distraction in the backseat, or simply a stroke of bad luck, car accidents or breakdowns can happen to everyone. Regardless of the reason, you may find yourself stranded on the side of a quiet road with no options. Having an emergency kit would be something that could help make a bad situation a lot better and more comfortable. To best prepare for any (and every) situation, here is a list of a few must-haves. What would you add?

A spare cell phone and charger

We all want to think that our cell phones will be there in a moment of need, but often they get damaged in an accident, dropped in the dark in a panic, or simply are too low on battery. Consider keeping an older model cell phone in your car and charge it up regularly. You will still be able to place calls to emergency services with an old phone. Alternatively, consider a “pay as you go” plan for the phone.

A fully-stocked first aid kit

You can buy many variations of these or build your own, but a fully-stocked first aid kit is arguably the most important emergency must-have when you're on the road. Be sure to review this kit annually to ensure there isn't anything damaged or expired.

A car battery charger

Whether you want to use traditional jumper cables and flag down a passing car, or have a mobile battery attached to jumper cables, sometimes this can be all you need to get you back on the road again safely.

A spare tire, jack and tire gauge

Flats can happen to all of us. A spare tire, a jack and a tire gauge (as well as knowing how to use all of those things) can be helpful to make a bad surprise a whole lot better. Should you get new tires for your vehicle, a good idea might be to save one of the better tires and replace it with the donut spare tire. A full size old tire will go a longer way than a donut any day.

Paper towels

Anything car-related is going to mean a mess. Paper towels can be helpful in just about any situation. Alternatively, consider wet wipes. Further, for the ladies out there, having a spare roll of TP might save you in a pinch out in the middle of nowhere or somewhere there isn't paper stocked in a gas station bathroom.

A multi-purpose tool

Whether it's a pocket knife, a multi-screw driver or some other combination, a multi-purpose tool of some kind can be a life-saver in terms of making a harder job a little more convenient. They're also great for storing in your car since they're intended to be compact.

Water and snacks

Alone or with loved ones, stress brings out a lot of our needs. Consider adding in water and some non-perishable snacks to your emergency kit so that you will be able to keep your mind and body in okay shape when help arrives.

A fire extinguisher

Many people think this is overkill, but all it takes is one flame on your hood for you realize just how useful and potentially lifesaving a fire extinguisher can be. You can find car-sized models for your emergency kit that will give you that extra peace of mind.

In an ideal world, no one would need emergency kits, but since breakdowns and accidents do happen from time to time to even the best cars and drivers, being prepared is one of the best ways to deal with it.  

We don't offer these preparation tools but thought it would be valuable to anyone, including our dealerships to share with their customers as we all could use to be a little safer and a little more prepared. Should you need some help with your aftermarket products you offer your car buying customers, contact Automotive Aftermarket Services at (866) 215-2383 to help fill that need.