VEHICLE PREPAREDNESS
We spend more time in our cars than most of us would like. Going back and forth to work, shopping and many other daily activities. Your car is your first option to put miles between you and a disaster. It should be kept in proper operating condition; tires, oil changes, etc. at all times. This is a good space to store your bug out bag also as you may not have time or the ability to go back home to get it. Your car is normally at your home, but your home is not always with your car. Get out of the habit of driving on empty. It may decrease the life of the fuel pump, but is a bad habit nonetheless. The last thing you want to be doing is waiting in line for gas. The extra in your tank will put needed miles between you and the unprepared, giving you a much needed advantage. Keep your tank at half full or better. Some things should be kept in the vehicle at all times. Even if you don’t know how to use them, they will be invaluable if someone happens along who does. Better yet, learn how to use them. A good spare tire and tools Jumper cables or a jumper cell A towrope, chain or cable (with hooks) A basic tool set Flashlight and batteries Fuses for your model vehicle Flares and/or safety reflectors A roll of duct tape A small fuel can (preferably a new one that is left empty) A siphon hose to siphon fuel. (Self-starting type is best) Spare belts, hoses and light bulbs Stick on the windshield compass (Don't forget to grab it if you have to leave the car.) Good map of your city and state as well as a multi state road map Contact information should be stored in a convenient place with registration and insurance information Pair of walking shoes and socks. Ladies, high heels are not for hiking, especially in cold! Folding shovel Space Blanket and/or sleeping bag Pencil or pen with note pad Multi-purpose rope Couple of rags as well as hand cleaner or pre-moistened wipes Car charger for cell phone Bug out bag(s) Matches and/or lighter Hat Extra water and snacks. If you store your Bug Out Bags in your car, some of the above items are repetitious and do not need to be duplicated. Keep all above items in a convenient place and stored properly. This may be a good time to clean the car, by the way! As you drive, consider where each item is. This is good mental practice.