Preparation of a proper vehicle contingency kit
There are several items of critical importance that any father is obliged to have in all vehicles the family uses on a regular basis. We have all heard the stories of the random family who suffers a breakdown while in a remote area. These events can be very dangerous, even more so when the cold and snows of winter arrive. A contingency kit is a basic collection of items that will allow anyone driving a vehicle to manage an unexpected situation should it be necessary. Below are listed what are considered the bare minimum to properly equip a vehicle for such a situation.
These guidelines are written with the thought that every vehicle will have a spare tire and the tools to change said tire already in place.
• Cellular phone - Any and all vehicles should be equipped with some method to contact the outside world or emergency services should the need arise. Many of us carry a cellular phone with us at all times and this is often preparation enough. Most experts do advise however to purchase a pre paid cellular phone complete with a car charger and or a portable charging device for the phone. This will cover any contingency should your vehicle be unable to deliver power for any reason.
• Personal Locator Beacon – While very pricey averaging around $500 US. These items are your best bet to signal for help if you are out of cell phone range. We highly recommend at least one of these devices to be placed in whatever primary vehicle the family is using.
• First Aid Kit – A midsized emergency first aid kit should provide you with the basic items to provide on the spot treatment for injury that might occur until you can reach a proper treatment center or emergency services can reach you.
• Jumper Cables – A obvious but often overlooked asset. Having these can be the difference between a minor inconvenience and a long arduous struggle to get a battery deprived vehicle moving again.
• Emergency vehicle hammer – These specialized hammers are made to break out vehicle windows. The pointed steel heads can easily shatter windows. A recessed blade is normally included in haft to cut through a tangled seat belt.
• Flashlight – This is a critical item that will serve you well in many situations. Purchase a reliable powerful light and store it in your kit along with a change of batteries.
• Blankets – One heavy wool or survival blanket for each member of your family is advised in this situation. This is of critical importance for wintertime situations. We do advise however that blankets be kept in the vehicle year round.
• Food/Water – Preserved rations and bottled water should be kept in your contingency kit at all times. This will allow you maximum comfort during an unexpected event.
Some extra items should be considered when driving in a winter environment.
• Fold away shovel
• Bag of rock salt or sand
• Extra blankets
• Hand/Body warmer packs
