The RAC have reported attending over 2.5 million call-outs for roadside assistance a year. This is equal to almost 7,000 breakdowns a day in the UK alone. With breakdowns occurring this frequently, are you prepared for it to happen to you? Assembling a breakdown kit can help you take control of the situation if the worst was to happen, so here’s some of the essentials you should consider storing in your car:
Assembling a breakdown kit can help you take control of the situation if the worst was to happen, so here’s some of the essentials you should consider storing in your car:
Blanket
A blanket would be handy to have if the weather is cold and you’re going to be stuck on the side of the road for a while. Foil blankets are the most efficient at keeping you warm but a regular fabric blanket would be sufficient.
Warning Triangle
These are compulsory in most European countries. They are a reflective triangle that motorists set up on the roadside to alert other motorists of the upcoming hazard of the broken down car. These are not suitable for use on the motorway, however, as walking down the busy road to place the warning triangle is too dangerous.
Torch
Being stuck on the side of the road in the middle of the night can be both scary and dangerous; a torch can help keep you safe. A wind-up torch would be best, but a battery operated torch will be fine, just keep spare batteries in your car!
Hi-Vis jackets
In bad weather you might not be visible to passing motorists, having a Hi-Vis is important for when you have to vacate the car.
Sun cream
If you’re caught out in the sun for hours, your skin could be severely damaged and sore. Protect your skin with some SPF 50.
Umbrellas
In England, it’s much more likely you’ll be caught in the rain than the sun. There’s nothing worse than being soaked to the skin and freezing cold, so pack some umbrellas – you’ll be thanking us later!
Long-life snacks
Cereal bars, crisps, raisins, crackers etc. will help stop the hunger pangs from making a long wait undurable.
Water
Of course, hydration is important. A few small bottles of water will be vital if stranded for a long time.
First aid kit
You should have a first aid kit in your car, regardless of whether you breakdown or not, in order to treat minor injuries effectively.
Tow rope & jump leads
If your car is broken down in an inconvenient place, you can ask a passer-by to tow you to the side of the road. Or, if you’re lucky, jump starting the engine might be all you need to get you on your way again. If this is the case, make sure you get to the nearest garage and get your car checked out to prevent the problem reoccurring.
Wheel wrench
If you just need to quickly change a tyre, this will be essential and can save you having to get a call out.
Fire extinguisher
If your engine has overheated, it becomes a potential fire risk. Be prepared for this.
Empty fuel can
If you’ve ran out of fuel, save an unnecessary call out by taking an empty fuel can to the nearest gas station.
Scraper and de-icer
If you breakdown in the winter months, these will help you keep your windscreen clear – a legal requirement before driving.
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