Pack your car trunk with a survival kit

An emergency on the road can happen at any time, whether you're dashing across town or traveling across country.

To prevent bad weather or a breakdown from putting the brakes on your journey, the National Safety Council (nsc.org/library/facts.htm) suggests:

Follow a regular tune-up schedule for your vehicle, keep a full tank of gas and, in winter, don't forget fresh anti-freeze.

Carry in your trunk:

• A properly inflated spare tire, wheel wrench and tripod-type jack.
• Shovel.
• Jumper cables.
• Tow and tire chains.
• Bag of rock salt or cat litter.
• Tool kit.

Keep a "survival kit" in the car and replenish it after use. Stock it with:

• Working flashlight and extra batteries.
• Flares, reflective triangles and brightly colored cloth.
• Compass.
• First-aid kit.
• Exterior windshield cleaner.
• Ice scraper and snow brush.
• Wooden stick matches in a waterproof container.
• Scissors and string/cord.
• Non-perishable, high-energy foods like unsalted canned nuts, dried fruits and hard candy.
  

If driving long distances--especially under cold, snowy and icy conditions--also carry supplies to keep you warm such as:

• Heavy woolen mittens, socks and cap.
• Extra clothing.
• Emergency blankets or sleeping bags.