Roadtrip! Whether it’s with friends, family or you’re heading on your own adventure, the summer road trip is a fun and exciting tradition that’s at least as old as the automobile.
But, for all the years the tradition been around, so too has the possibility of something going wrong somewhere along the way, especially with your car. Despite that fact, many people just hop in their cars when it’s time to leave without giving a second thought to the safety of the vehicle and its occupants, or taking precautions to be better prepared for an emergency.
We’ve put together the following tips to help you make this year’s the safest road trip you’ve ever enjoyed.
1. SERVICE YOUR CAR
Whether you think it needs it or not, get your car serviced and tuned-up. Here are the things to check and correct as needed.
Tire pressures, including the spare.
All fluid levels: brake, transmission, motor oil, windshield washer fluid.
Brakes.
Transmission.
All lights in the car, including your dashboard warning lights, running lights, brake lights, and headlights.
2. THINK OF A WORST CASE
OK, let’s not think about the absolute worst case, but what about if you drive off a road in a remote area at night time and the car won’t start? What will you need?
3. ALWAYS KEEP YOUR CELL PHONES CHARGED
Whether it’s in hotels or in the car as you’re driving, charge your cell phones as much as possible. You’ll never know how long you’ll have to go without a charge in an emergency. If everyone in the car has a cell phone, keep them all charged and try to use only one at a time in an emergency.
4. WATER AND BLANKETS
You might not think to carry a blanket in the middle of summer, but nighttime can get cool at any time of year. You should also have a spare case of water in the car too.
5. EMERGENCY FIRST AID KIT
Remember to include fresh bandages of all types and sizes, antiseptic first aid cream, scissors (preferably one that can cut seat belts), medical tape, safety pins, alcohol-free cleansing wipes, bug bite spray or cream, aspirin or acetaminophen.
6. EMERGENCY CAR KIT
Including a tire jack, jumper cables, flashlight, whistle, tow rope, reflective roadside sign, warning lights, and/or flares.
The list can go on, depending on just how prepared you want to be. Hopefully, this one at least gives you an idea of some of the things you need to consider to be prepared for emergencies on the road this summer. Safe driving!