Whether your vehicles are for commuting or recreational outings, I have found that taking a few measures in readiness can help. From traffic jams to breakdowns to evacuations, we should have things in our vehicle that will facilitate comfort and safety. Keep in mind that everyone is a bit different in their needs based on their environment and lifestyle, so be flexible and adapt these concepts accordingly. Earthquakes, tornados, and hurricanes have historically caused families to have to evacuate for a day or two until it is safe to return. More common is a vehicle breakdown on the road either enroute to work (common) or hours away from getting services to you (a plausible extreme). During that time, you should be able to comfortably sustain yourself and your family.
While growing up in the Dallas suburbs, it was likely for my parents to get out of work only to be in standstill traffic, sometimes for hours. My mother and brother have a medical condition that required frequent attention at the time, so being stuck in traffic without supplies just for a few hours could have literally been a death sentence for them. Being responsible parents/adults, my parents stored supplies in the vehicle(s) just in case. I use my parents for this subject because this is how a responsible parent/adult should prepare at a minimum. At no point did they store guns or bug out bags or active shooter response kits. They simply prepared for the likely scenarios, plus some extras here and there to keep my brother and I from complaining during long drives. They stored enough food and water for all four of us (not MREs), a basic first aid kit (Not IFAK-style), bad weather attire, and some basic hygiene items. And best of all is that they weren't afraid to use any of it. We never felt like any of it was off limits. Only storing "just in case" supplies that you can't touch until an emergency is about as sensible as a scuba suit in the desert, because "just in case". BASIC READINESS To start, store what you can’t live without, such as prescriptions and fluids so you can reach them while in the drivers’ seat. Have enough to last at least two days because there is a high likelihood you will want/need some of these supplies outside the context of what you’re preparing for. Next thing is to have simple snacks in an area that is within easy reach but out of reach of the sun, such as inside the arm rest. Stick to snacks that are not going to melt or go bad if left in the vehicle. Things like Nature Valley bars, fruit gummies, or peanut butter crackers are simple and sensible. Again, have enough to last 2 days for the same reason as before. Next is a small medical kit that can sustain you to treat yourself/someone else for small to medium lacerations. This will come in handy during that long drive to the hospital after cutting yourself with an electric knife on Thanksgiving (SORRY DAD, BUT YOU BECAME A STATISTIC). Again, make sure it is easy to reach and is even well marked (strap it to the back of the passenger or driver headrest). I recommend Band-Aids, gauze wraps, tape, ointments, and even over-the-counter pain relievers for this kit. Put a hygiene kit in your glove box, even if it is small stuff thrown in (disposable razor, deodorant, wet wipes/toilet paper, travel toothbrush) because life happens where we don’t have time/ability to freshen up. Lastly, do yourself a favor and put an umbrella, jacket, and gloves in your vehicle. Find that windbreaker or old thin rain jacket and toss it in the trunk with a pair of thin gloves, at least. Life happens and we still have a hard time predicting weather. These simple items do not take up much of any room and they are handy when the wind and rain come to say hello at the most unforeseen times. It is just sensible to have these supplies in your vehicle, so no excuses here. Whether your vehicles are for commuting or recreational outings, I have found that taking a few measures in readiness can help. From traffic jams to breakdowns to evacuations, we should have things in our vehicle that will facilitate comfort and safety. Keep in mind that everyone is a bit different in their needs based on their environment and lifestyle, so be flexible and adapt these concepts accordingly. Earthquakes, tornados, and hurricanes have historically caused families to have to evacuate for a day or two until it is safe to return. More common is a vehicle breakdown on the road either enroute to work (common) or hours away from getting services to you (a plausible extreme). During that time, you should be able to comfortably sustain yourself and your family. ADVANCED READINESS Advanced levels of readiness don’t make you failsafe, but it is a manner in which you can prepare for less likely, but plausible, situations. For those who have the training, having emergency trauma kits in their vehicle can be a great asset if you decide to provide roadside first aid. If you are a mechanic and would be willing to help someone having vehicle trouble, then a toolbox may find its way into your trunk. Again, if you have the training and the situation is plausible, go for it. On the contrary, I am not an advocate for having rifles and shotguns stored in vehicles, no matter how tactically proficient you are. That is tin foil hat territory in my book unless you are a Peace Officer or are actively hunting. Having food and overnight supplies in your vehicle is a smart idea if you go driving in remote areas often. If you commute long distance (over an hour), having an overnight bag with comfort and sleeping items for a couple days would be wise so you can crash in the office, your vehicle, or a friends’ place. My dad had slept in his office many nights throughout his extensive career, and my girlfriend has spent many nights on her sisters’ couch after long shifts at work, so it is not an unusual situation in today’s busy work environment. CLOSING These are just a few ideas to get your mind jogging. Take what I have suggested here and add what you think may be handy or something you find you need or want often. Also, feel free to omit certain items you think you can really live without. Again, your life your rules, but it takes little to no money or time to compile a list of items you could use in an emergency and just get them into your vehicle.
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Do It RiteAlaska-Based Youtube Vlogger, Retired Marine, Firearm and Gear Tester. Archives
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