Things I Keep in My Car…
Over my career as a construction professional and a safety professional I learned to keep certain things in my car, just in case I need them, or someone else does…
1) Roadside Emergency Kit: (of course!) Keep a tow rope, jumper cables, and Location/Season/Weather appropriate items – in the winter that would normally be tire chains (in the mountains), scraper, snow boots, kitty litter, and a blanket.
2) Tire care items including tire gauge. Air compressor that powers from your car’s lighter socket, and a can of fix-a-flat. Don’t forget to learn how the jack and spare tire are stored in your vehicle and how to use them before you need them. (If your car is so equipped - newer vehicles no longer come with a spare)
3) Charging cables: To keep your phone from dying on the road. Consider also an emergency power (or solar power) charger
4) Extra vehicle fluids, especially windshield washer fluid: I have run out before and it wasn’t good…don’t forget pre-mixed radiator fluid and some oil. Know how to check your fluid levels!
5) Extra PPE: Safety shoes, safety glasses, hard hat, earplugs, hi-vis vest and gloves
6) Extra change of clothes including shoes & socks: Basically an overnight bag including a jacket – because spills happen, or accidentally discover a mud hole, or get wet or get stuck somewhere away from home and have to stay the night.
7) Water: Avoid glass containers in the winter, when water freezes, it expands and likely will break the glass.
8) Snacks: carry snack items that are stable in both heat and cold environments. Granola and nuts are good choices.
9) Medications: headaches and allergies strike at the most inopportune times. Be sure to carry an antihistamine and pain reliever.
10) A map or atlas: because sometimes your navigation system or phone loses signal or battery power and you still need to find your way
11) Sun and Rain Gear: Hat, Sunglasses, Sunscreen and lip balm, umbrella and/or rain jacket are essentials.
12) Toilet paper and paper towels: Messes happen, and sometimes the jobsite port-o-let or the roadside rest stop is out. Don’t forget the hand sanitizer or wet wipes!
13) A First Aid kit: At least band aids, cold pack, fingernail clippers and tweezers.
14) Flashlight!
15) Something to write with: Notebook, pen or pencils, and sharpies so you can take notes if needed.
What you decide to keep in your vehicle will depend on your situation, where you travel, how far, in what season, and with whom. Maintain your vehicle and your kit so both are ready when you need them!