Emergency items to have in your vehicle

Emergencies happen all the time, and there are a wide variety of things that could go wrong while on the road. These can range from a flat tire to being stuck in a snowy ditch for days. You want to consider a basic emergency kit to keep in the car at all times and a travel kit tailored to a specific trip. Kern Auto Parts/NAPA has all of the items you will need to stock your emergency kit.

Your close-to-home kit will have some basic items to work on your car. For example, you must have everything you need to change a tire along with gloves, a couple quarts of oil, some antifreeze and water. A can of tire inflator may be a good item to have as well just in case you need a temporary fix for a minor flat. You’ll also want to have jumper cables, flares and a flashlight available.

What goes in a kit for comfort and safety? Here are a few ideas: a first aid kit, drinkable water, energy bars (or some non-perishable equivalent), blankets, toilet paper, cell phone, towel, hat, sneakers or boots and emergency cash or a credit card.

If you live in an area with frequent severe weather or earthquakes, you may want to make revisions to this list for longer emergencies.

A kit for trips away from home will vary based on the weather and geography of the place you are traveling. There are a few items that are necessary no matter where you are going. You’ll need to have light and heat and will want to provide protection against the elements, as well as adequate food and water for everyone in the car.

A couple other safety notes to consider: Always tell people where you are going and have planned places to check in.

Keep your vehicle properly maintained at your local NAPA AutoCare Center.

ALWAYS have a plan.

Your local Kern NAPA Auto Parts store is located at 20633 South St., Tehachapi. They can also be contacted at (661) 822-3015.