Emergency Preparedness: Emergency Car Kit

A few years ago, commuters on I-15 at the point of the mountain were stranded in their cars in a snowstorm. It took more than 6 hours for help to arrive. Every year, drivers on Utah roads are stranded. If you were in a similar situation, would you have the supplies on hand to stay warm and comfortable for that period of time or longer? An emergency car kit will help assure your safety.

An emergency car kit can be placed into a backpack and kept in the trunk or back of the vehicle. A car kit is an addition to the emergency tools you should already have in your car like a spare tire and jumper cables. We are also advised to make a habit of keeping our gas tanks over 1/4 full.

Make it a habit to never let your car get low on gas. At a minimum, keep your tank 1/4 full.

Emergency Car Kit Supplies:

Here are some things to consider keeping in an emergency car kit. Print this checklist and check off the items as you acquire them and store them in your car kit.

⇒ Gloves

⇒ Stocking hat and jacket

⇒ Water

⇒ A polyester or wool blanket

⇒ Solar cell phone charger and cords

⇒ First Aid kit

⇒ Snacks that won’t freeze or melt (such as nuts or granola bars)

⇒ A fire extinguisher

⇒ Matches in a waterproof container

⇒ Cash

⇒ Infant or pet care items

⇒ Duct tape and scissors

⇒ Folding shovel

⇒ Crank flashlight

⇒ Hand warmers

⇒ Poncho

Watch for more information next month on water storage.

Just a few basic supplies may mean the difference between being stranded and being safe.