Do you have air in your spare? Why would I ask such a silly question? You might say I’ve learned from practical experience. I had a flat tire today. But, there’s more to the story than that. I went to replace the tire with my “donut” spare tire. The bad part was the donut was flat too. Fortunately the flat happened while I was in town, so I was able to resolve the issue without too much effort. This incident, however, really got me thinking about safety and being prepared.
I decided to create a list of the bare minimum that everyone should have in each car they drive.
11 items everyone should have in their car:
- Drinking water and snack food
- Blankets and warm clothes
- Cell phone and charger
- Flashlight
- Paper and pencil/pen
- Toilet paper
- Tire changing kit (spare tire with air, jack, lug wrench, gloves)
- Air pump
- 12 foot jumper cables
- Fluids: oil, anti-freeze, windshield fluid
- First aid kit
Did I miss anything important? Please add a comment to let me know.
Wes,
Last night I had a flat too after hitting a pothole on 580 and I agree with all those items needed. Especially the flashlight. It is very hard to change a tire in the dark on the side of the freeway without one. I did not have one and ended up having to call my AAA.
I would add one more item…flares. If you are on the freeway on 580 and cars are zipping by you at speeds of 70mph or more, flares are easier and more cars slow down.
Jeff
You’re right, flares should be added to the tire changing kit. A little cheap insurance to let others know that they should slow down.
All my cars have a couple cans of “Fix-a-flat,” and flares. (let me check to make sure) I also like to keep a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and a flashlight.
I have had several flats in the rain while on a freeway in the middle of nowhere.
Changing a tire the conventional way on the side of a freeway is unsafe. It is better to inflate the tire with a couple cans of Fix-a-flat and be on your way.
I never thought of that, maybe I should add Fix-a-flat to my tire changing kit too. 😉