Pack a car emergency kit

Having your car break down is no picnic, especially when you’re far from home. To prevent common roadside problems from ruining your spring break trip, keep these items in your car.

In the glove box or console

• Cell phone charger (Remember: Don’t text or call when driving!)
• First-aid kit
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Tire pressure gauge
• Spare fuses
• $20 in small bills and change
• Pen and pad of paper
• Auto club card or roadside assistance contact information
• Disposable flash camera (A cellphone camera also works.)

In the trunk

• Fire extinguisher (Consumer Reports recommends a compact unit labeled 1A10BC or 2A10BC.)
• Reflective hazard triangle, flares and/or a battery-powered warning light
• Spare tire, lug wrench and tire jack
• Tire puncture plug kit or a tire repair product like Fix-a-Flat
• Jumper cables or portable battery booster
• Gloves, hand cleaner and clean rags
• Car fluids – windshield wiper fluid, motor oil, brake fluid, antifreeze, etc. – and funnel
• Knife
• Electrical and duct tape

For long trips

• Basic tool set: sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, etc.
• Coolant hose repair kit and tape
• Water and nonperishable food
• GPS navigation system

For cold weather

• Blanket, winter hat, gloves and scarf
• Windshield scraper
• Chemical hand-warmers
• Small folding shovel and kitty litter
• Tire chains and tow strap

When an unexpected, severe injury or illness occurs, you need high-quality care fast. With 11 emergency rooms (ERs) in our network, HCA Midwest Health is here for you when an emergency situation arises. Our hospital and freestanding ERs provide 24/7 emergency care to patients of all ages with locations throughout Kansas City and its surrounding communities. Learn more at KCFastER.com.