Whether you work as a utility driver or frequently find yourself on the road for business trips, it’s crucial to take the proper safety precautions. For many, this means informing loved ones of where they’re going or keeping a detailed log of the routes they complete. However, even if you’re already taking some safety steps, it’s still common to forget about what you should have in your car with you. These are some of the essential emergency supplies to have in your work car and how they can help you in a roadside crisis.
Jumper Cables
Jumper cables are a necessity for long road trips—especially if you’re driving an older vehicle. Car batteries will quickly drain of energy in certain environmental conditions or if they are simply too old to maintain a charge. When this happens, you won’t be able to start the car and get it to move. Jumper cables allow you to give your battery a quick jolt of energy by using the live battery from someone else’s car, so they’re a great tool to have on-hand if you can’t get your car to start.
Inflated Spare Tire
Since flat tires are another common problem that long-distance drivers run into, an inflated spare is another of the vital emergency supplies to have in your work car. Though you’ll have your route planned out ahead of time, you have no way of knowing how much debris is on the pavement until you get there. As such, it’s easy to puncture a tire as you drive. Keeping a spare with you at all times ensures that you can quickly switch them out and get right back to the road.
Road Flares
Road flares are another piece of equipment you should consider keeping in your car. After all, you never know when you might need a bit of extra light. Some routes can take us along dark and secluded roadways. Should your car break down close to nightfall, it can leave you in a position where oncoming traffic doesn’t see you. Flares allow you to warn oncoming vehicles of your presence and even help you to flag down help—just make sure you choose the right ones for your specific needs.
First Aid Kit
You’ll want to keep a first-aid kit nearby, as well, in case you sustain an injury. This is especially important for utility workers as they regularly encounter dangerous currents in roadside electrical boxes. Along with bandages and antiseptic, these kits may also contain medication to help with pain and specialized salves used to treat burns. As such, they’re important for keeping yourself healthy and safe as you wait for assistance to arrive.
