How to Stock a Minor Disaster Kit for Your Car

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By Joan Collins, eHow Member

Article Rating: (4 Ratings)

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Stock your safety kit

As you load the family into the car and head for the store or to parts unknown, you don't like to think that this trip could involve a disaster, large or small. With the disaster kit you are going to make for your car, you will always be prepared. Remember, safety first starts with a good kit.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Carry WD-40. If your lug nuts won't loosen, a quick spray can remedy the situation. It is a universal solvent that will loosen anything from the chewing gum on the bottom of your shoe to crayon marks on your car.
Step 2

Add tweezers. Not only can you remove splinters from your hands, they are great for getting pennies out of the tape player/CD player parts in your car.
Step 3

Buy duct tape and keep it everywhere. It will hold up that muffler until you can get to the shop. You can use it to patch holes or create needed items. If the headliner on your car falls, duct tape it. You might want to watch the Red Green show to get some great ideas.
Step 4

Take several plastic trash bags. They can be used as make-shift seat covers for someone with wet clothes, an emergency "suitcase", a carrier for water, or for trash.
Step 5

Include kitty litter. This great substance will not only absorb oil stains in the driveway, but it can be used to help you create traction on the snow or on the ice during winter.
Step 6

Throw in a shovel of some type. You can buy folding shovels, but even a child's plastic shovel is better than no shovel at all. The shovel can help you get out of a snow drift or get you unstuck from the mud under your tire.
Step 7

Carry a blanket. In case of illness, wetness or an accident, it is good to have an extra blanket in the trunk. It can be used to keep the victim warm until help arrives but will also be there if you want to take a quick nap in a chilly car.
Step 8

Always carry at least five gallons of water, especially if you leave near a desert area. If your car breaks down or you have an emergency stop, water can make a life or death difference. You can also use it to wash wounds or clean up accidents.
Step 9

Pack a first aid kit. Include bandages, sterile gauze, adhesive tape, pain killer, antiseptic wipes and/or spray, tweezers and a snake bite kit. Add a thermometer and a mouthpiece for CPR. You should be set for any minor disaster that comes your way on this trip.