The news reported this past year on several families and adventurers setting out for a camping or hiking trip in the northwest only to find themselves lost in the strange wilderness, confined to their cars waiting and hoping that man will find them. The loss of Cnet's James Kim brought awareness to the ease at which citizen can get lost while driving straight through the forest as well as the need to be prepared for any situation when driving in unfamiliar areas.
It is prominent to have a few basic crisis supplies in your car as part of an crisis kit. Cell phones are by far the most helpful piece of tool to have with you when you travel, even if going to remote areas. But cell phone batteries are unreliable and many still don't take one with them when heading into the great outdoors. Having other supplies with you in the car can make all the inequity in staying alive and staying safe.
There are many commercial and basic crisis kits available. Most of these preset packs consist of jumper cables, reflectors and some miscellaneous tools. Higher end models may also consist of some type of crisis air pump that you can plug into your car's power outlet and pump air into a flat tire. Some also come with first aid kits.
Weather and climate in your area or the area you are traveling may help guide you with putting together other items you may need in your crisis kit. A shovel can come in very handy to get your car out of snow or mud. Some traction substance is also prominent for such situations. Kitty litter is one of the most popular types of traction. You may also be able to carry some remnant carpeting strips or sand.
One very prominent component of a car or truck's crisis kit is a light source. While a decent flashlight might be included in the kit you bought, you might want to look at investing in a longer-lasting, more reliable light. Led flashlights are known for being the best light source for crisis situations. They come in varied sizes and features, including crisis beacons and flashing lights. If you have room a Led headlamp may be a good addition for hands-free light should you need to change a tire or signal for help.
Preserving battery power in your car is pretty important. Some citizen may want to add a spare radio to their kit. There are radios on the store that do not take batteries. Instead you crank a deal with on the side to charge it. A good capability blanket is going to be very prominent in very cold weather because it is unwise to keep the car running while you wait for help. Also consist of a small furnish of food and water.
No one expects to be caught in an crisis situation while traveling. Being prepared none the less is prominent to you and your family's safety. Before going on your next house camping trip, hiking adventure or trip to see the relatives, put together an crisis kit with the items described above. Consider your exact voyage situation and possible needs and add accordingly. This prominent item could make all the difference.
~ Ben Anton, 2008
