Roadside Hazard Kit

It's important to have emergency items in your vehicle in case you experience hazards on the road, especially as we head into the winter weather season. For around $40-50 you can purchase a kit online that's endorsed by the AAA. It has most everything you need (and some things that you don't!).

Or, you can build your own kit using many items you already have. My dad, who worked as a mechanic many years ago and is my go-to-guy for all things car-related, recommends a few items not in the AAA kits, including an emergency fan belt and an extra quart of oil. I've included those items on my list - pasted below (sorry for formatting weirdness; I've been fighting with blogger for almost an hour now!!). If you'd like a formatted copy (in PDF) that you can easily print and use as a guideline for your vehicles, just send me an e-mail :)

Safe travels!
-amy

Roadside Hazard Kit You Can Make Yourself
Must-Have Items:

• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Jumper cables (recommended min. 8 feet long)
  
• 2-3 bungee cords
• Flares
• Emergency fan belt
• 1 roll duct tape and/or electrical tape
• Large garbage bag (multiple uses, including a rain poncho and a dry place to kneel when changing a tire or tire chains!)
• 2-in-1 screwdriver and pliers
• Assorted fuses
• Extra quart of oil
• 1 rag or "shop cloth"
• Cable ties (especially helpful for securing hoses and tire chains)
• First Aid Kit

Extras

• WD-40
• Tire pressure gauge
• Tire Inflator (this "goo" patches holes and re-inflates the tire temporarily; can be purchased at automotive stores)
• Safety Lights (I have a 2-pack of 12-hour lights; they don't need batteries or fire)
• Solar charger for cell phone and other devices (we use the Solio)
• My in-laws also gave us the SafetyCross 6-in-1 Self-Powered Emergency Light which includes a compass and radio
• Auto blanket for changing tires, etc. (we have one that's water proof on one side and fabric on the other so we can also use it for impromptu picnics!)
• Safety vest or other reflective tape/clothing (so you can be seen at night on the side of a road)
• Gallon jug of water and energy bars (if desired)
  

Plus: if you live or drive where there is snow, always have tire chains and a blanket with you (and perhaps even rubber boots!)