Be prepared in roadside emergencies with a kit

When it comes to commuting or traveling any lengthy distance, an auto emergency kit can mean the difference between getting back on the road or being stuck for a long period of time.

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In many cases the personal emergency does not require a 911 call, and having an auto emergency kit handy allows you to help yourself.

An auto emergency kit is the one item that every car or truck should have and below are some of the basic items all of us should keep in their vehicle to help us get back on the road quickly and safely:

WATER -- plastic bottles with screw tops. Four 16 oz bottles suggested.

FOOD (non-perishable) -- Consider "power bars," hard candy, canned food (with can opener), gum, beef jerky, canned fruit, etc.

BLANKET -- Wool is best for combating shock.

SHOES or BOOTS -- Sturdy boots or shoes that you can use for hiking or walking in bad terrain. A pair of heavy socks should be stuffed in each shoe.

MATCHES

FLASHLIGHT (with extra batteries)

FIRE EXTINGUISHER -- Consider mounting it in the passenger compartment or have it near the top of your kit in trunk, or back of truck, so you can get to it quickly.

YOUR REQUIRED MEDICATION -- At least a week's supply if possible.

PORTABLE RADIO -- Portable AM/FM (or AM/FM/TV/Weather) radio.

MAPS -- Local area and a state map are ideal.

NOTEBOOK -- A small pocket size notebook with pencil in a zip-lock bag.

GARBAGE BAGS -- Two 45-gallon size. These can be used for a rain suit by cutting a hole in the corners and center of the top of the bag for arms and head.

FLARES -- Large folding reflectors are also good in an emergency.

TOOL KIT -- Pocket knife, standard blade screwdriver, six twist ties, roll of electrical tape, 8-inch crescent wrench, vise-grips, hammer and safety glasses or goggles should do the trick.

CAR KEYS -- Extra set outside of the trunk or interior. Do not use a full set with house keys. Wire them in place, cover with tape, etc.

Lastly, since your vehicle can be used as a place of refuge in an emergency, make sure you have a first aid manual or EMT manual along with a first aid kit complete with pain reliever, band aids, gauze, antiseptic, etc. handy.

Check retail stores or visit www.totalresourcesintl.com to pick up a NASCAR-branded Automotive First Aid, Roadside Auto Emergency or Roadside Life Safety Kit for your car.