Preparing for a Road Emergency

From auto accidents and flat tires to an car lock-out or locking your keys out of the car, any kind of emergency situation on the road can be less scary when you're prepared.

Obtain Emergency Response Coverage
Travel clubs and auto insurance companies are the two most common ways that drivers obtain emergency response service, but now many makes of vehicles also come with emergency locksmith response options as well. From OnStar emergency service that's associated with GM vehicles to roadside assistance from Volvo, manufacturers now offer many options for emergency protection-even with the purchase of a used car.

Designate Contacts in Case of Emergency
Emergency responders nationwide urge drivers with cell phones to note emergency contact people with the acronym ICE (In Case of Emergency) in the phone contact list. You could designate more than one emergency contact by listing ICE1 and ICE2 in your cell phone contacts list.

Stock an Emergency Supply Kit
There are pre-made emergency road kits available for purchase, or you can assemble your own. Important components are flares, first aid materials, matches, flashlight with batteries, warm blanket and/or a foil emergency warming blanket, non-perishable food items (energy bars, canned nuts) and a large bottle of water.

Keep Emergency Car Repair Tools
Handling a vehicle emergency is much easier when you have the right tools on hand. For flat tires and dead batteries, keep the following items in your car: jumper cables, screwdrivers, gloves, jack, lug nut wrench or tire iron, and an adjustable wrench.