What To Pack In Your Roadside Emergency Kit

From forest fires to snow storms to unexpected breakdowns, having a roadside emergency kit handy could mean the difference between life and death, or at the very least, get you out of some hairy situations. Whether you’re driving a pickup truck or a commercial long-haul truck, it pays to be ready just in case something should go wrong. To make sure you make it home safe and sound, here are some essential items you’ll want to keep in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

1. Portable cellphone charger. In the event of an emergency, your instinct will be to call for help, which will be pretty hard to do if your phone goes dead. Not to mention, every Canadian knows by now that sub-zero temperatures or even high heat warnings will have your cellphone’s battery less efficient. Having a portable charger handy (and fully charged, duh) will be able to give your phone just enough juice to send assistance. It’s also helpful should your truck’s battery go dead as well.
2. Road flares or signals. If you are out in the middle of nowhere and there is no sign of any traffic coming your way, or the snow is creating visibility problems, then road flares can be a great signal. Try to go for ones that are made to show up in the harshest of weather conditions.
3. Portable jumpstarter. Long gone are the days when your only hope of starting a car with a dead battery is to find another running vehicle. Today, you can simply grab your portable jumper, clip it to your battery terminals, and fire up your car. This one will not only jumpstart your car’s dead battery, but it also charges cellphones with two USB ports and has a built-in flashlight! 
4. Flashlight or headlamp. Changing a flat tire in the middle of the night isn’t always easy, especially if your light source is limited. We recommend going for something rechargeable so that you can keep it juiced up by plugging it into your truck occasionally.
5. Water and snacks. You never know how long it's going to take for help to arrive. Whether you’re waiting in scorching hot summers or the dead of winter, it’s essential that you keep hydrated. And while we can go up to three weeks without food, high-calorie, non-perishable snacks will also help you stay warm if you’re caught in the cold.
6. Fire starter kit.  Starting a fire is one of the most essential and invaluable camping or survival skills. Newspaper and matches are a simple, time-tested method.

Arrive Alive with Lange & Fetter Motors

To make it home safely to your loved ones this season, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Additionally, have peace of mind knowing that every new Ford of Canada vehicle includes emergency Roadside Assistance during the powertrain coverage period of your New Vehicle Limited Warranty.