With the beginning of Summer in sight many families may be starting to plan for summer outings and road trips. Many of which will probably be using the family vehicle. Traveling during the summer can be loads of fun, but not if you happen to get stuck on the side of the road in the sweltering heat.
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Many people think that it is only essential to have an Emergency Kit for the winter months only. Actually it is just as important to have an emergency kit on hand during the summer months since the hot summer temperatures can impact the performance of some vehicles.
We have come up with a DIY Vehicle Emergency Kit for summer that is easy to put together and also keeps in mind the needs of your family.
1. Water
Hydration is key when it comes to staying alive and well during the summer months. Ensure that you have enough water for each person present - at least one litre per person.
2. Snacks
Some healthy snacks on board are essential especially if you have small children with you. Opt for snacks high in protein such as granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits, peanuts, etc.
3. Activity Kit
Stranded drivers often have to call roadside assistance but that can often take quite a while for someone to arrive. That’s why purchasing small activity items for your emergency kits can be helpful.
4. Phone charger
If you find yourself stranded the last thing you need is to discover that your phone battery has drained and you have no way to charge it.
5. Blanket
You may not need the blanket to stay warm, but you can use a reflective emergency blanket for shade. If you don’t have a reflective blanket, the blanket from your winter car survival kit will work to shade you from the blistering sun.
6. First aid kit
First aid kits usually include bandages, antibiotic cream, tape, tweezers, and gauze. In the summer months, your kits should include sunscreen and allergy treatments like antihistamines or EpiPens.
7. Flashlight
If you are ever in a situation where you have to change a tire on the side of the road, it’s going to be really hard to do so without some light. Make sure that you have a flashlight with you at all times (or your phone with a flashlight app).
8. Tools
Include an adjustable wrench, some duct tape, a couple of screwdrivers and pliers. You never know when a simple tool might help to get you back on the road.
9. Tire sealant and guage
You can stop a flat tire before it happens with tire sealant, which can quickly repair the punctures up to 1/4-inch in diameter in the tire’s tread area. Make sure it’s an item on your car emergency kit list. Use a tire gauge to make sure your tires are properly inflated.
10. Tire compressor
If you get a flat tire, it will most likely be in an inconvenient place, like in the middle of nowhere. A flat tire can also ruin your day if you are on a time crunch. An air compressor is a great way to fix a flat tire without waiting for help. It plugs into the cigarette lighter and fills up the tire in minutes. This is a lifesaver if you get stranded and don’t have the resources to ask for help from someone else or move your car to a more convenient place.
11. Jumper cables
One of the important items in your roadside emergency kits is jumper cables. They allow you to jumpstart your car if your battery runs dead, or help other motorists in need of a boost.
12. Wet wipes/baby wipes
What should one of those things that are good to have all the time in your car as well keep things clean and And your hands up IV dirty after you get done changing your tire so now you have a way to clean them up.
Will you be making sure to have a DIY vehicle emergency kit on hand for summer?
