Emergency kits are an absolute must-have for any commercial truck driver, and there are regulations in place detailing what should be in these kits. However, there are a few extras that we also feel deserve a place in any vehicle for those “just in case” scenarios. Whether you decide to buy a pre-made emergency kit or create your own, here are some of the items worth having on board.
- Reflective triangles
- Fire extinguisher
- Emergency flares
- Extra fluids (windshield washer fluid, coolant, etc.)
- Extra parts (light bulbs, tires, battery)
- Tools (screwdrivers, utility knife, cable ties, etc.)
- Tire pressure gauge
- Jumper cables
- Flashlight and extra batteries
- Blanket
- Rain poncho
- First aid kit (bandages, gauze, antibacterial ointment, burn salve, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, epi-pen, alcohol swabs)
- Bottle water
- Food (protein bars are a good choice because they have a long shelf-life and provide lots of vitamins and minerals, but jerky, canned goods and other non-perishables can be included as well)
- Extra cash
- Map
- List of emergency contacts
- Extra medications that you take
Long-haul truckers who spend even more time on the road should also consider packing additional items in their emergency kit. While no one plans on being stranded anywhere for a long period of time, especially with cell phones and other forms of technology available, it can still happen. Consider these additional items:
- Extra set of clothes including outer wear
- Sewing kit
- Candles and matches
- Extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Scissors
- Rope
- Compass or GPS device
- Sleeping bag and pillow
Emergency kits may seem extreme to some drivers, but you never know what the road holds. It’s always better to be prepared than not, so take the time to purchase a pre-made kit or pack your own emergency supplies – if the need ever arises, you’ll be glad you did.