11 Things to Keep in Your Vehicle

It is not a question of if we will be in an emergency; it is a matter of when.  You may be the one in trouble or it may be someone else.  Help may or may not be on the way.  Help yourself.  One of the best ways to prepare for an emergency is to have your vehicle stocked with items you may need.  Aside from emergencies there are common mishaps that do not rise to the level of an emergency but are frustrating, time consuming, and costly.  JVF Mobile Mechanics suggests  you keep the following 11 items in your vehicle at all times.

First Aid Kit

If a person’s airway is blocked or they are bleeding profusely, time is of the essence.  A LifeVac choking rescue device can clear the airway.  A tourniquet can stop or slow the bleeding until medical treatment can be administered.

Flares/Reflective Triangles

Reflective triangles are important to warn other motorists to prevent an accident.  Flares can help rescuers find you when darkness, weather, or terrain obscure your location.

Satellite Communicator

A portable GPS unit enables 2 way communication when you do not have a cellular or wi-fi signal.  These devices use satellites to establish communication.  You can communicate with search and rescue personnel and loved ones.

Fire Extinguisher (B/C Rated)

B/C rated fire extinguishers can put out liquid, gas, and electrical fires.  An A/B/C rated fire extinguisher can also put out paper, wood, and trash fires.  A vehicle is an enclosed space.  The powder from an A/B/C rated fire extinguisher can be inhaled so it may not be a good choice if people are in the vehicle on fire.

Emergency Blanket(s)/Blanket(s)

An emergency blanket reflects as much as 90% of your body heat.  A blanket provides additional warmth.  Even in the southern U.S. it can be very cold at times.  An emergency blanket or blanket can save your life or at least make you more comfortable.

Portable Car Jump Starter with

Air Compressor

This is a 2fer.  Use this tool to jump start your vehicle or inflate a tire.  If the only thing preventing you from getting back on the road is a weak or dead battery then this item can have you on your way quickly.  Likewise, the compressor will inflate a tire low on air pressure or one you patched.

Tire Patch Kit

These kits can get you back on the road but use caution.  If the hole is in the sidewall or bigger than ¼ inch in diameter it is not safe to patch and drive on the road.  Exceptions would be a temporary fix to drive a short distance at low speed or get your vehicle back to the road if you are off road.

Portable Tool Kit

Sometimes all it takes to finish your trip is a simple tool.  A socket, wrench, or screwdriver may be all you need to turn the key and get moving.  It does not take a mechanic to clean and tighten a battery terminal.

Flashlight

A flashlight is one of the most commonly used items used in a car kit.  Make yourself visible.  Find something in the dark. Use it to work on your car.  It is helpful to have a flashlight that can stand on its own or be hung to illuminate an area.

Ice Scraper

Even if you live in a warm climate, be prepared..  Driving without a clear windshield and windows all around is dangerous.  Take time and clear the view before you roll down the road.  Your next road trip may require an ice scraper.

Food & Water

If you are on a long trip or you are stranded you should have food and water in your car.  Keep water in a high quality reusable container that does not degrade the quality of water over time.  Dehydration can negatively affect you in many ways.  Don’t ruin a trip for lack of something so simple to have on hand.  It is a good idea to have non-perishable food in your vehicle in case you are stranded.  It is also convenient when you are in a remote location and want to stop for a rest and something to eat. 

That may seem like a lot of stuff to tote around when you may never need some of it.  Well, that may be the case but you may be able to help someone else.  The items on this list may prevent inconvenience, make you more comfortable, or save a life. For mobile auto repair jacksonville FL, call JVF Mobile Mechanics at 904-429-5219.