Just in Case (30 page)

Pen magnet (useful for retrieving keys you have dropped into a narrow space)

Pry bar (useful for pulling a fender away from a tire should you be in a minor fender bender)

Empty gas can, siphon, and funnel (note that I wrote “empty” it is a bad idea to drive around with a full gas can in your vehicle, because the fumes are hazardous and the chances of a serious fire in a collision are too great to take the risk)

A more extensive tool chest is necessary only if you know how to do your own repairs. Otherwise, an honest, reliable auto mechanic is worth whatever he or she charges.

We are not all going to learn to tear down an engine, but everybody with a car should be able to change a flat tire, check the oil, add coolant and windshield washer fluid, and pump gas. When your kids get driver’s licenses, require that they prove they can do these things.

Get in the habit of filling your gas tank when it is half full. During a crisis, gas might be rationed or completely unavailable. You don’t want that to happen when you are running on empty.

EMERGENCY KIT

I
N ADDITION TO
a repair kit, it is wise to have a first-aid kit and an emergency kit for every family member in your automobile. A first-aid kit containing all the items listed on page 43 should be stored in each of your vehicles. An emergency kit for each vehicle should include, at minimum, the following:

Water

Light sticks

Road flares

Collapsible stove and fuel canister

Small pan

Unbreakable cup or mug

Radio (battery operated with fresh batteries or hand cranked with added cellphone charger, siren, and strobe light)

Flashlight (battery-operated with fresh batteries or hand cranked)

Whistle

Four heavy-duty trash bags