It’s any driver’s worst nightmare: Your car has unexpectedly broken down, leaving you stranded on the side of an Arizona highway. While regular maintenance can help you avoid this scenario, it’s best to be prepared in case of an emergency. With the proper precautions, you have the power to turn a potential disaster into a minor bump in the road. The first step? Keeping a well-stocked car emergency kit.
Building Your Emergency Kit
Your car’s emergency kit should include supplies to take care of both you and your car. There are several types of supplies, ranging from the essentials to optional extras. Let’s break it down.
The Essentials for You:
- Basic first aid kit containing aspirin, antibiotic cream, bandages, gauze, etc.
- Non-perishable snacks like energy bars and crackers
- Bottled water
- Car phone charger and/or portable power bank (in case your battery dies and you’re unable to charge your phone from your car)
- Extra blankets, warm clothes, and rain gear in case of inclement weather
- Insurance information and roadside assistance contact info (like the number for Barnett’s Towing 24/7 roadside assistance services)
The Essentials for Your Car:
- Flat tire supplies: spare tire, tripod jack, and wrench
- Working set of jumper cables
- Flashlight and spare batteries
- Reflective gear (to help make your car visible at night)
- Tow rope
- Fire extinguisher
Extras:
- Snow shovel and/or window scraper – These might seem unnecessary for the Arizona heat, but it never hurts to be prepared, especially traveling on mountain roads.
- 2-way radio – In the age of cell phones, radios are becoming obsolete, but you never know when or where your cell service might disappear.
- Glow sticks – If your batteries run out, or you want to place them around your car for visibility.
- Emergency car battery charger
With these supplies, you can improve your chances of making it through an automotive breakdown unscathed. If you do find yourself on the side of the highway, don’t hesitate to contact Barnett’s Towing at (800) 722-2302. We provide 24/7 roadside assistance, so we can be available to you when you need us most.
