The Recycled Part

It's a fact. Break-downs happen.

AAA reports 30 million calls every year from motorists stranded on the side of a road somewhere in the US. Are you prepared to navigate a vehicle breakdown of your own?

This must have list is a great place to start building a emergency vehicle kit or inspecting one you may already have!

1. Cell phone & car charger. In an emergency, these can be the most critical components of your kit. Although a cell phone will probably be on your person, it may make the difference between getting help quickly and maybe getting none at all. If you have trouble connecting inside the car, get out if possible and search for a better signal. Even with "no service" messages, try calls anyway.

2. Jumper cables and a portable battery booster. Jumper cables are easy to use assuming you have a second car to provide a jump. Get cables at least 10 feet long and coated with a minimum of 8-gauge rubber. Your vehicle owner's manual will have instructions. A portable battery booster can give you a jump without another car.

3. First aid kit. Purchase a kit which allows treatment a range of problems, from small cuts & burns to those requiring major bandaging. It should include band-aids, adhesive tape, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, antiseptic cream or ointment, aspirin, as well as specifics for you or your family.

4. Flares and three reflective warning triangles. If you and your vehicle are stranded on the roadside, it’s paramount you warn other motorists. Flares and hazard triangles make you visible. Many kits available for purchase come with only one hazard triangle. However, you should have three and place them 50 feet apart to warn oncoming traffic.

5. Headlamp and/or flashlight, extra batteries. This can be crucial at night. Choose models that are bright and waterproof. A headlamp is preferable, as it allows your hands to be free. Make sure to have spare batteries with you.

6. Drinking water & non-perishable food. Prepare to sustain yourself plus passengers for a minimum of one meal and longer if you are traveling through remote areas. Good choices are protein bars, nuts, dried fruit, etc.

7. Jack & lug wrench. Most likely, your vehicle comes with these tools standard. Check your owners manual for their location as well as the location of your spare tire. Familiarize yourself with how to operate the jack before you need it!

8. Cat litter or sand. This can help your tires get traction in icy or slick conditions, especially if your vehicle is in a ditch. Cat litter is lighter than sand and works just as well.

9. Tow chain or rope. A great resource if you are having engine problems and need a tow to a nearby repair shop. Choose a chain or rope that can handle 6,000 lbs of force. Familiarize yourself with how to properly attach a tow chain or strap to your car and be ready to do it in dark or wet conditions.

10. Fire extinguisher. The quicker a fire can be extinguished, the less damage. A model rated for class B & class C will be able to used on any fire involving flammable liquids or energized electrical equipment. Choose a compact unit and familiarize yourself with the operating directions.

Be prepared. Happy Driving :)