What to Prepare in My Car Emergency Tool Kit?
Whether you are taking a long car ride or a short one, there is always the possibility of a case of emergency. If you come across a crash into a ditch or a sudden tire blowout, having a safety kit in the back of your trunk will come in handy. Owning an emergency tool kit can make a big difference to your safety. We recommend 10 essential safety tools you should store in your car to help you in cases of emergency.
1. First-Aid Kit
You can easily purchase a pre-packaged first-aid kit at a pharmacy store or even create your own first-aid kit. If you choose to prepare your own, make sure to include materials such as bandages, gauze pads, adhesive tape, antibiotic ointment, cotton swabs, antiseptic spray, tweezers, scissors, gloves, and even a thermometer.
2. Tow Rope
If you are driving and you end up getting stuck on a ditch or road, having a tow rope can help you save the day. Make sure to store some heavy-duty tow rope to help you pull your car in case your car wheels encounter trouble.
3. Jumper Cables
If you are on the road and your car battery suddenly dies, owning jumper cables can offer a temporary solution to transport your car to the nearest help destination. To use the jumper cables, simply find another driver who is willing to assist you. Attach your cables to the driver’s vehicle, matching the positive and negative battery terminals together to help your car charge.
4. Emergency Flares or Triangles
While on a busy intersection or highway, you may find yourself stranded. When you encounter an emergency case, you should turn on your emergency lights to inform passing drivers and pedestrians. But in case your emergency lights fail to attract the attention of other drivers, let off emergency flares or place emergency triangles around your car to help warn others of your car’s presence.
5. Portable fire extinguisher
In case of severe accidents, cars are prone to catch on fire. Owning a portable fire extinguisher can be a great help. A safe place to store your fire extinguisher is in front of the passenger seat, mounted on the floor.
The National Fire Protection Association classifies fire extinguishers into classes based on the types of fire they can put out. Class B fire extinguishers are great for car fires.
6. Spare Tire
In case of an emergency like a sudden flat tire, carrying a spare tire can quickly solve the problem. Replace your tire, use the tire gauge from your tool kit to make sure they are safe and ready to use, and you can set out on the road again.
7. Car Jack 
From replacing brake pads to changing a flat tire, a car jack will be an essential tool you need to lift your vehicle. Store a car jack in your trunk so you are prepared when you need to change your tires or to check your car condition
8. Flashlight
In case of night time emergencies or damaged headlights, owning a flashlight can make your work easier. You can store a heavy-duty waterproof flashlight, hand-crank flashlight, a lantern, or a headlamp in your tool kit. If the flashlight you choose needs a battery, make sure to have extra batteries as well.
9. Tool Kit
You never know when your car might break down. On your wait for help, a tool kit can help you easily save the day. Make sure your tool kit carries items including duct tape, antifreeze, pocket knife, screwdrivers (flat and phillip head), pliers, oil, brake fluids, and tire gauge (to ensure tires are in safe, working condition).
10. Warm blanket and clothes
When you consider your safety tools, it is important to also consider warm blankets and clothes. Especially if your car breaks down in the winter or in the mountains, having additional pieces of clothing and blanket can keep you warm as you wait for help. As an alternative, you can even use the blanket as a window shade or towel.
START NOW! With a car emergency tool kit, you will be prepared and ready to make your road trips safer than before.Take some time to prepare the 10 recommended safety tools, and find a spot for each of them in your car. If you haven’t already, start building your car emergency tool kit today!