Essential items for roadside emergency kits

Motorists never know when problems with their vehicles may force them to pull off the road and onto the shoulder. Whether it’s a flat tire, a sputtering engine or an empty gas tank, such circumstances are never welcome.

But such situations need not be so unbearable. Drivers who keep roadside emergency kits in their vehicles may find themselves getting back on the road more quickly the next time an unforeseen problem forces them to pull off the highway. The following are some must-have items drivers should include in their roadside emergency kits.

• Roadside flares

• First-aid kit

• Jumper cables

• Warm blankets

• Flashlight

• Screwdrivers (both flat-head and Phillips)

• Tire-pressure gauge

• Spare tire

• De-icing agent

• Nonperishable snacks

• Extra fluids (i.e., motor oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, windshield washer)

• Pliers

• Cell phone charger

• Important phone numbers (i.e., mechanic, auto insurance company)