Don't leave home without an auto emergency kit

Vehicle emergency preparedness is an important concern for all of us, especially for those who travel long distances. But no matter where you travel, your vehicle should contain a basic car survival kit, because anyone who drives is at risk of ending up in a survival situation.

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It's important to prepare for the unexpected. Think of the worst possible scenario and prepare for it. Always have a survival kit in your car that never gets removed.

Some essential items to have in your car include:

• A complete first aid kit
• Flashlights and extra batteries
• A multi-tool knife
• Extra set of clothes -- extra socks, gloves and hats
• Thermal blanket
• Waterproof matches and candle
• Tools (screwdriver, pliers, wrench, hammer)
• Road flares
• Rope
• Jumper cables or portable battery charger
• Small shovel
• Bottled water
• Food -- nuts, dried fruit or energy bars
• Cell phone with a fully charged battery

Update the contents of your kit on a regular basis and make sure all drivers and passengers know where to find it.

Your car's emergency preparedness and life safety are important. Visit the NASCAR.COM Superstore to pick up a NASCAR officially-licensed 125-piece first aid kit and www.besmartkits.com for roadside life safety and auto emergency kits designed to equip your vehicle with all emergency preparedness essentials.