Is your vehicle ready for an emergency?
You might think about an emergency kit before a winter road trip, but roadside emergencies or neighborhood evacuations can happen anywhere, at any time of year. On even a relatively short trip a breakdown could mean a couple hours in either the heat or cold waiting on a tow truck. Give yourself peace of mind by performing regular maintenance on your vehicle and having a well-stocked emergency kit in the trunk.
Emergency kit basics
| At minimum, your vehicle should always contain these items: | In the winter months in cold regions also include: |
|---|---|
| A properly inflated spare tire, wrench, and jack | Salt or kitty litter |
| Complete first aid kit | Folding shovel |
| Flashlight and extra batteries | Ice scraper |
| Multipurpose tool and utility knife | Blankets |
| Jumper cables | Extra gloves, hats, etc. |
| Road flares | Non-perishable food |
| Extra phone charger and/or battery backup | |
| Bottled water | |
| Emergency cash |
Extra useful supplies
| If space in your vehicle allows or severe weather is predicted, you may also want to include: |
|---|
| Car fire extinguisher |
| Hand wipes and paper towels |
| Rain poncho |
| Duct tape |
| Tarp |
| Sunscreen |
| Paper map of the region |
| Pen/pencil and paper |
If you frequently travel with an infant or a pet, consider what other specialized supplies you may need.
Equally important
Know your car is safe and reliable.
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Have your vehicle inspected regularly by a certified mechanic.
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Routinely keep your gas tank over a ¼ full.
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Replace your tires when their tread is less than 4/32 or if they develop uneven wear. Having low tire tread greatly reduces your grip on the road and is especially dangerous in wet or snowy conditions.
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Check your tire pressure monthly when they are cold.
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A complete brake inspection should be performed once a year, and have any trouble signs checked out as soon as possible.
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Check your fluid levels once a month, and bring it to your mechanic right away if you suspect a leak.
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Have your battery tested to verify it is charging at the correct rate. If it is over 3 years old it may be time for a replacement.
If you need an appointment to have your vehicle’s readiness inspected, give us a call at 860-951-1083. Safe Travels!
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