South Africa is home to many beautiful scenic drives. How prepared are you for an emergency on a journey on South African roads? An effective emergency car kit includes tools and supplies to help you survive and get your vehicle back on the road.
The top essential items every car emergency kit should contain are: ¹
- First aid kit.
- Portable jump starter.
- Torch and visibility items.
- Flat tyre kit.
- Tow Straps.
- Fire extinguisher.
- Water and non-perishable food.
- Multi-tool.
- Navigation Equipment* if you don’t have a navigation app on your mobile phone or are travelling where there is no signal *(compass, GPS, etc.).
- Climate-control equipment (clothing, blankets, fans).
These items are crucial for fixing or sustaining your vehicle until help arrives.
Breaking Down the Emergency Car Kit
Let’s dive into the details of each item in your emergency car kit.
1. First Aid Kit
Every car emergency kit needs a first aid kit. You can buy one or assemble your own with plasters, burn shield, gauze pads, hand sanitiser, anti-bacterial wipes, aspirin, cotton balls, tweezers, sunscreen, bug spray, splints, bandages and plasters. A well-stocked first aid kit can treat anything from minor cuts to more severe injuries until professional help is available. ¹
2. Portable Jump Starter
A dead battery is a common reason for car breakdowns. While jumper cables require a second vehicle, a portable jump starter lets you independently restart your car’s battery. It’s a quick and reliable solution, especially in remote areas with few passing cars. ¹
3. Torch and Visibility Items
If your car breaks down at night or in a dimly lit area, you’ll need a torch to see what you’re doing. Torches help you work on your car’s engine. At the same time, visibility items like glow sticks or reflective triangles alert other drivers to your presence, preventing accidents. ¹
4. Flat Tyre Kit
A flat tyre kit should include a jack, lug wrench, vehicle owner’s manual, and a spare tyre. These tools enable you to replace a flat tyre and get back on the road quickly. Refer to your owner’s manual for specific instructions for your vehicle. ¹
5. Tow Straps
Tow straps are essential if your car gets stuck in mud or a ditch. These heavy-duty straps can attach to another vehicle to pull your car back onto the road. Sometimes, the assistance of a passing driver, even a truck driver, can be invaluable. ¹
6. Fire Extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is crucial for tackling small fires that might start in your car’s engine or cabin. If a fire occurs, stop the car, get out, and assess whether the fire is small enough to extinguish safely. Never attempt to put out a large fire; it’s safer to distance yourself from the vehicle. ¹
7. Water and Non-Perishable Food
If you’re stranded, food and water are vital. Keep water in plastic or collapsible bottles and pack high-calorie, non-perishable foods until help arrives. ¹
8. Multi-Tool
A multi-tool is versatile and compact, combining several tools into one. It’s handy for minor repairs or tasks, making it an essential part of your emergency kit. ¹
9. Navigation Equipment
Traditional navigation tools like a compass or a portable GPS are invaluable in areas without cellular service. They help you find your way if you’re lost and can’t rely on your phone’s GPS. ¹
10. Climate-Control Equipment
Prepare for extreme weather by including gloves, beanies, heat packs, space blankets for chilly weather, portable fans, extra water, and sunscreen for hot weather. These items help you stay comfortable and safe until you can get help. ¹
Keep Your Emergency Kit in Your Vehicle
Always keep your emergency kit in your car, preferably in the boot or a storage compartment. Store all items together in a durable, easy-to-access bag. Uncharted offers resilient bags and inserts perfect for organising your emergency gear. You can also find additional survival gear online tailored for roadside emergencies. ¹
Additional Essentials for Your Car
Besides your emergency kit, keep a few other items in your car, such as self-defence gear and a medical ID. Non-lethal self-defence items like pepper spray or tasers are easy to store and use. A medical ID-type card, which includes your medical aid details (if you have it), your blood type and allergies can provide crucial information to first responders if incapacitated. ¹
Keeping a well-stocked emergency kit and the above additional items in your vehicle could help you prepare for emergency situation, ensuring that your roadside experiences are as safe as possible. ¹
Disclaimer:
The article aims to inform South African motorists about the essentials in their cars in an emergency.
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