Jack Williams

The Red Cross Says You Need THESE Items in Your Car!

As you pack up your vehicle for the next trip to the beach or mountains, consider first adding the essentials you'd need if something goes wrong.

An emergency preparedness kit, according to the American Red Cross, can contain a variety of items, some more specific to your personal needs. But for general purpose, have at least:

• Water-one gallon per person, per day (of the drive)

• Food-non-perishable, easy-to-prepare items

• Flashlight

• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio (NOAA Weather Radio, if possible)

• Extra batteries

• First aid kit - Anatomy of a First Aid Kit

• Medications (7-day supply) and medical items

• Multi-purpose tool

• Sanitation and personal hygiene items

• Copies of personal documents (medication list and pertinent medical information, proof of address, deed/lease to home, passports, birth certificates, insurance policies)

• Cell phone with chargers

• Family and emergency contact information

• Extra cash

• Emergency blanket

• Map(s) of the area

Depending on your family, you may also need:

• Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, etc)

• Baby supplies (bottles, formula, baby food, diapers)

• Games and activities for children

• Pet supplies (collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl)

• Two-way radios

• Extra set of car keys and house keys

• Manual can opener

Though we hope that the worst will never happen, being prepared when you need to be will bring a sense of ease to an otherwise stressful situation. Setting up your kit in advance can make all the difference in your hour of need.