by Jade Skyye

Created on: September 28, 2009

Emergency Essentials for the Road

There's no time like the present to make sure that you are prepared for the worst, should it happen while you are on the road. One never knows when the unthinkable will happen to them or their car. Keeping an emergency essentials kit in your car or other vehicle will help prepare you - should that day come sooner rather than later.

Depending on what region you live in, there are some items that you will definitely want in your kit. Some additional items may vary according to climate, etc. Addresses that typically see snow throughout the year will want to include the following items in the kit.

A bag of sand: to help your vehicle tires gain traction when stuck on ice.

An ice scraper: to do the obvious, scraping of ice.

At least one blanket: to keep you warm in case of engine failure.

Hand & Foot warmers: to keep you warm and dry, if needed.

Meal/Nutrition bar: to have in case of being stranded for a period of time.

Drinking water: to have in case of being stranded or for other use(s).

Long-burning life candle: to provide warmth and some night vision.

On the other hand, locations that rarely get snow and ice, but have no shortage of heat and humidity may want to include the following items.

A battery-powered fan: to circulate air.

A reflective panel or umbrella: to provide some shade and protection from the sun.

Drinking water &/or electrolyte beverage: in order to stay hydrated.

Meal/Nutrition bar: just in case.

Light/thin clothing: preferably wicking-type clothing.

Regardless of environmental conditions, the following supplemental items are staples in every kit.

A cell phone: this may be your life line to the rest of the world (or at least, help).

A list of emergency assistance numbers: dialing 911 may be inappropriate, so have additional useful numbers handy.

A flashlight: always a good item to have for any and every occasion.

A set of jumper cables: to help yourself or maybe someone else.

You are ultimately the decision maker on what to include in your emergency essentials kit. Keep it simple, including a lot of extras will take up space and use additional fuel. Having an abundance of supplies may cause you to forget to check expiration dates or may cause you to overlook a use by label. Make sure to have the appropriate quantities of various items, depending on your family size and/or special needs.

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