Whether on the road or at home, you need to be equipped
with basic survival items and tools that can make driving and living with your
car easier, safer, and more convenient. Here are some suggestions as a
starting place for an emergency road kit. Many of these items you may have
on your shelves at home:
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Jumper cables
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Cellular phone, charger, and emergency phone numbers
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Ice scraper and snowbrush
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Flashlight or spotlight with extra set of batteries
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Pair of work gloves
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Rain suit or poncho (bright colored for safety)
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Safety goggles or glasses
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Pair of disposable work “coveralls”
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Fire extinguisher
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Road flares
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Candle and matches in case your stuck on a deserted road
for heat
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First-aid kit
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Electrical tape or duct tape
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Pressurized can of tire inflator or sealer
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Battery-powered air compressor
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Bottled water and snacks (no canned drinks because they
may explode in colder temperatures)
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Blankets
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Wheel chocks in case you need to change your tire
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Basic tool set (pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable
wrenches)
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Mini shovel, sand, and/or salt (if traveling in the
Northern States)
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Winter gloves, scarves, and hats
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Windshield washer solvent and de-icer
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Funnel for liquids and an EMPTY gasoline container
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Extra automotive fuses (there are many types these days,
so make sure you have the correct ones for your vehicles)
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Mechanical and elastic tie-down straps
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Roll of heavy-duty paper towels or rags