10 Emergency Items to Keep in Your Car
Breakdowns and emergencies happen when you least expect them. Whether it’s a dead battery or icy roads, having the right gear can make all the difference. At St Marys Auto Body, we’ve put together a list of the top emergency items to keep in your car to keep you safe and prepared.
1. Fully Charged Cell Phone or Backup Device
A phone can be your lifeline. Even deactivated phones can call 911, so keeping one in your glove box isn’t a bad idea. Learn more from the FCC on wireless 911 services.
2. Jumper Cables
Dead batteries are one of the most common car problems. Keep a good set of jumper cables on hand, and consider watching this AAA guide on jump-starting a car.
3. Flashlight and Multi-Tool
Power outages, flat tires, or late-night mishaps—having a flashlight and a multi-tool is crucial. Bonus: many multi-tools can even help free a stuck seatbelt.
4. Road Flares or Reflective Triangles
Make your car visible to others in the dark or bad weather. Reflective triangles and road flares are essential safety tools. Here’s a guide from the NHTSA on roadside safety.
5. Food, Snacks & Water
Keep non-perishables like granola bars or MREs in your car. Rotate them regularly. Water is essential, and you can also toss in electrolyte or flavoring packets. For long-term storage ideas, visit Ready.gov.
6. Warm Blankets
A few warm blankets can make a huge difference in cold climates. They also come in handy if a passenger needs comfort or rest.
7. Ice Scraper, Salt or Cat Litter
Cat litter can help with traction on slick surfaces. It’s also cheaper than salt and doesn’t damage your vehicle.
8. Customized First Aid Kit
Start with a basic kit, then add personal medications, allergy meds, and a lighter. Fire-starting may sound extreme, but it’s practical for warmth or sterilization.
9. Folding Shovel
If you live in snowy or rural areas, a folding shovel can get you out of sticky situations—literally. It’s a winter driving must.
10. Tire Sealant, Work Gloves & Fire Extinguisher
Tire sealant can inflate your tire enough to reach a shop. Gloves protect your hands, and a small fire extinguisher can stop a vehicle fire before it spreads.
✅ Checklist Recap – Emergency Items to Keep in Your Car:
- Cell phone (charged or backup)
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight & multi-tool
- Road flares or reflective triangles
- Non-perishable food & water
- Blankets
- Ice scraper, salt or cat litter
- First aid kit with personal items
- Folding shovel
- Tire sealant, gloves, fire extinguisher
Preparedness = Peace of Mind
Stocking these emergency items to keep in your car ensures you’re ready for whatever the road throws at you. Visit our Resources Page for more safety tips, or contact St Marys Auto Body to get your vehicle inspected before your next trip.
