Tools That Make Roadside Assistance Easier

No driver wants car trouble spoiling travels. But should an emergency arise, having certain tools on board makes getting help much less stressful. Useful items empower you to tackle minor issues or improve safety until assistance comes.

Emergency Warning Tools

Carrying visual warnings helps alert other motorists you have stopped roadside. Flares burn over 30 minutes placed behind vehicles to signal traffic away from danger; LED flares prove reusable and safer around vehicle leaks. Reflector triangles likewise divert passing cars away, giving ample warning day or night. Personal flashing beacons attaching to clothing also draw needed attention from oncoming drivers when outside the car. 

Tire and Wheel Tools

A flat tire necessitating a spare is among the most disruptive road incidents. Ensure your trunk contains tools facilitating the change. Find the jack, lug wrench, and spare checking that they function and lack rust or wear. A tire pressure gauge helps properly inflate spares and signals when air gets low. The good folk at Clore Automotive recommend wearing sturdy rubber gloves to protect hands when swapping out dirty wheels. Include a rechargeable torchlight for visibility assisting night changes. 

Power and Charging Devices

Roadside emergencies often drain car batteries or devices quicker than expected. Portable car jump starters quickly revive dead batteries with no need for another vehicle to be present. Models containing air compressors also inflate low tires in a pinch. Phone chargers enable contacting help from stranded locations. Maintain these gadgets fully charged so they work optimally whenever problems arise.

First Aid Gear

Accident scenes require quick access to medical supplies stabilizing injuries until professionals arrive. Equip cars with adhesive bandages, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment, trauma shears, instant cold packs, and lightweight blankets. Use personal protective equipment like gloves and breathing barriers if rendering aid. Complete first aid training and refresh periodically understanding proper protocols. Include an up-to-date guide reviewing steps aiding common trauma.

Fire Extinguishing Equipment

Though rare, engine fires occasionally happen, requiring immediate suppression. Class B/C extinguishers employing dry chemical agents suit extinguishing liquid fueled car blazes best. Mount them near drivers reachable through windows. Check pressure gauges remain in operable ranges. Get shown proper grip, aim, sweep, and discharge techniques by qualified instructors. Practice on controlled fires establishes confidence stopping flames during road mishaps. Place an additional larger extinguisher in trunks for supplementary situations. 

Multipurpose Tools

Incidents like locked keys inside cars, minor repairs, and debris clearing sometimes arise unexpectedly. Prepare by carrying sturdy multipurpose tools, offering solutions until help comes. Strong foldout knives sever jammed seatbelts or airbag straps during entrapment. Prybars open doors allowing access should keys get misplaced. Pliers turn battery terminal clamps when cables won’t reach. Shovels, saws, and cutting tools remove downed trees or branches blocking passageways after storms. Rely on quality materials like tempered steel guaranteeing reliability when challenges pop up miles from home.

Emergency Food and Water

Breakdowns may require waiting extended periods for assistance to arrive. Stash nonperishable nutrition like protein bars, trail mix, and dried fruit sustaining stranded passengers. Several gallons of bottled water prevent dangerous dehydration, especially in hot climates. Refresh supplies twice annually checking expiration dates remain current. Account for all passengers’ needs including children and those with medical conditions. 

Empower Yourself Through Preparation

Equipping cars thoroughly makes vehicle issues less scary providing confidence you can manage whatever comes up. Flares, medical supplies, multipurpose tools, and other well-stocked gear keeps you safe, nourished, and ready for action. Practicing with emergency equipment ensures you deploy it correctly protecting all occupants when urgencies strike. Stay proactive securing reliable assistance options for heavier issues exceeding individual capabilities. Preparing and researching ahead gives assurance you have ample support to get rolling again quickly.