There’s a good number of folks out there with a membership to auto clubs or drive under a warranty offering free roadside assistance.  While these are highly beneficial features, being a member of an auto club or having a free roadside assistance option can lull a person into a false sense of security regarding roadside breakdown.  Unfortunately, vehicle breakdowns do happen and they happen unpredictably so you may find yourself in a poorly lit area without any cell phone reception or tow truck at hand.

If you should find yourself in this type of situation, it would be highly advantageous to have a roadside emergency kit.  An emergency kit can ease the pain and remove the hassle of a vehicle breakdown.  Most people may not consider car kits until it is too late, then you will wish you did not leave home without one.  This article will provide information on the top essential items required for a quality roadside emergency kit.

Charged Cell Phone:  While this item will more than likely be on the individual, it can be the difference between receiving help quickly and not gaining help at all.  According to the AA organization, it is recommended that the cell phone is fully charged each time you climb into your car to avoid being left without any means of contacting help.

First Aid Kit:  In addition to an assortment of Band-Aids, a first aid kit should include gauze pads, adhesive tape and antiseptic wipes to clean any injuries that may be experienced.  Antiseptic cream or ointment is also important as part of the first aid kit as this will help reduce the development of infection in any injury.

Fire Extinguisher:  The fire extinguisher should be rated for Class C and Class B fires by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  According to the NFPA, Class B fires include fires involving flammable liquids such as diesel fuel, gasoline and kerosene.  Class C fires include those with electrical equipment such as batteries, panel boxes and switches.

Tire Gauge:  The AA states that all drivers should place a tire gauge in their roadside emergency kit as an instrument to regularly check the air pressure in their current and spare tires.  Unfortunately, the majority of people ignore spare tires until they have a flat and then discover the spare is not inflated.  In this situation, they will find the spare tire worthless and this is why it is recommended that the spare tire is regularly inflated.

Jumper Cables:  The jumper cables included in the car emergency kit should be at least ten feet in length and coated with approximately 8-gauge rubber.  This instrument is highly effective when dealing with a flat battery.

Foam Tire Sealan and Compressor:  In the situation where a spare tire is not available or is not inflated, there is a means of repairing a flat without changing the tire.  By using a foam tire sealant, it is possible to repair the current flat quickly and without any high cost.  Of course, the foam sealant is only temporary and a flat tire will need to be dealt with as soon as possible.

A Roll Of Duct Tape:  Duct tape can be considered the universal solution to almost any problem.  The AA recommends carrying at least ten feet of duct tape as a means of repairing any issue experienced during a break down.

Tow Strap Or Tow Rope:  Tow straps or tow ropes are beneficial when attempting to remove a broken down vehicle.  The rope or strap in the emergency kit should be strong enough to tow approximately 6,000 pounds.

Blankets:  In addition to keeping you warm during the cold month, blankets can help you get your car out of a ditch by helping to provide traction under the tire

Bottles of Water:  You never know when, or where emergency roadside assistance will be needed.  For all you know it could take place in the middle of nowhere.  The human body needs water and so does your radiator if it ever loses fluid.

A Set of Tools:  Include a set of tools in your roadside kit.  While it depends on how far you want to go here, but more is definitely better, Plyers, a wrench and screwdriver are a bare minimum

A Flashlight:  Keep a flashlight handy with extra batteries

Lighter:  A robust lighter should be a staple in any emergency roadside kit

Need Emergency Roadside Assistance?

Stranded roadside and need emergency roadside assistance St Louis? Why not choose the towing team with over 20 years experience exclusively in St Louis.

Fully insured, licensed and bonded in the states of Missouri and Illinois, the folks at Reliable Guys Towing pride themselves in clear communication to ensure that services, prices and quality far surpass our competition. We know our talented technicians are the best in the business, and we go that extra mile in resolving our clients issue so that they feel comfortable and assured for their Roadside Assistance needs.

Whether you need accident assistance, general towing service, or have a dead battery;  we’d be more than happy to serve you. Give us a call at (314) 325-1016 and one of our knowledgeable towing service reps will help assist getting a tow truck to you so we can quickly get you on your way.