10 Essential Things You Should Keep in Your Car
It’s a good idea to be prepared for all situations. Whether that be a flat tyre, a broken down car or a phone that’s out of charge, you’ll need something to ensure small mishaps and technical difficulties don’t render you or your vehicle entirely useless. Here’s what we recommend should be kept in your car, just in case a minor emergency occurs.
Spare Tyre/Jack
Having a spare tyre in your car is essential. Ensure it’s fully pumped with air and free of debris or damage. You’ll also need a jack to take the old tyre off and put the new one on. Even if you don’t know how to change a tyre, chances are someone will. But it might be a good idea to learn, just in case.
Tyre Changing Supplies
It may be that at some point on your travels you’ll need to change a punctured or damaged tyre. To do this, you’ll need the appropriate tools. Where a spare tyre and a jack are pretty obvious choices when it comes to replacing a tyre, there may be other tools you’ll need which you might not have thought of.
A lug wrench, wheel chock, tyre pressure gauge, extension bars and alignment studs are among other things you should consider using when changing a tyre. Not only will it make the process easier, but it can also make the situation safer.
Jump Leads
Instead of convincing yourself that your car battery definitely won’t die half way down the A1, pack some jump leads just in case. You can’t always rely on kindhearted passersby to have some either, if you don’t know how to use jump leads, there’ll be a good Samaritan who will.
A Multi-Tool
This is a handy tool that combines several functions in a single unit, some multi-tools are small enough to fit in your pocket. Invest in a compact, all-in-one device that contains everything, from a saw and bottle opener, to a screwdriver and wire cutters, they’re inexpensive, versatile and incredibly useful in all situations.
Mylar Blanket
The common misconception with mylar blankets is that they warm you up. In fact, the best time to put one on is when you have a slight chill and not when you’re freezing cold. They reflect heat, if you aren’t giving off enough of that already, the blanket has nothing to reflect, which could make you even colder.
For optimum warming, take off your outer layers and wrap yourself in the blanket, then put your outer layers back on. If you get too hot, unzip your jacket to release some heat, or uncover your head.
A mylar blanket has many uses, more than just keeping you warm on a cold night at the side of the M1. You could use it to fashion shade when it’s hot, use its reflective surface to dry wet clothes faster, or even use it to collect water when it rains. The possibilities are endless.
First Aid Kit
First aid kits are good for treating minor cuts, bruises and burns, some kits even come with a sling for suspected broken arms. Gauze can be useful to help soak up the aftermath of a nosebleed for example, plasters for small cuts or larger dressings for other lacerations. You don’t want to be caught in the middle of nowhere without basic first aid.
Fire Extinguisher
In the unimaginable event that your engine catches fire, you’ll need something to put it out. A small powder fire extinguisher is more than capable of doing the job. You can buy small ones that are designed to be carried around in the boot of your car and they’re relatively affordable. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Torch or Mini-Lantern
It’s always helpful to have a bright, good quality, heavy duty torch with you in case of emergencies. The light on your phone won’t be strong enough and it will also drain the battery extremely quickly. Don’t get left in the dark, bring a roadside torch with you.
A Portable Phone Charger
You don’t want to be caught in the middle of an emergency with no means of communication. Ensure your phone is fully charged before you travel and bring a portable charger with you to be extra safe. Of course, check that the portable battery is fully charged also, before putting it in your car.
Hazard Triangle
If your car begins experiencing problems on the road at night, especially in the countryside where you won’t always have the luxury of street lights, the aim is to make yourself as visible as possible. Put your hazard lights on and set up the triangle at least 45 metres (147 feet) behind your broken down vehicle on the same side of the road. Take great care when placing or retrieving them and never use them on a motorway.
Auto Exhausts & Tyres have a team of highly skilled mechanics who carry out quality servicing, MOTs and repairs. We offer a friendly, trustworthy and comprehensive service at competitive prices. Operating in Lincoln and surrounding areas, our experts are always happy to help. For more information or advice, get in touch with us today.
