Build An Emergency Kit For Your Car

Even with cell phones and roadside assist services, it's still recommended that every car have an emergency kit in the trunk. It seems to me, from various articles I've read, that you could carry an entire car-care center in your trunk, and still be worried that you`re not prepared for a car emergency.

So what should you include in your car emergency kit? I think it all depends on where your driving takes you. For example, if you find yourself on long stretches of lonely road quite often, you`ll want to include more of the items on the list, perhaps a tire inflater and a first aid kit, among them.

I've driven my share of hand-me-down cars over the years, most of them with their best years barely visible in the rear view mirror. In that case, it's a no-brainer to have a set of jumper cables on hand, especially for winter driving. And I don't know anyone here in the frozen north who doesn't have an ice scraper in the car. Other things might not be so obvious.
I found an article that gives a pretty thorough run down of just about anything you could possibly need in a car emergency. Then I went to the dollar store to see what I could find to fill some of those needs. As I've mentioned before, Dollarama has solid tools for $2 or less. Your car's tool box should, among other things, include the following:

• pliers - $2 a pair
• vise grips - $2
• screwdrivers - $1.25 each
• tire pressure gauge - $1
• roll of duct tape - $1

Other essentials include pen and paper, bottled water, paper towels and a reliable flashlight with extra batteries. A compact flashlight costs $1.50 at Dollarama and you can get a five-pack of Panasonic alkaline plus batteries for $2 or the same battery in packages of two for a buck. I'm told that batteries don't last as long in the cold, so you should change them once a month in frigid weather so your flashlight will work when you need it most.

Other articles I've read suggest having a box of emergency candles and matches on hand for winter driving and both of these items are still only a buck each at Dollarama.

I think most drivers would be safe carrying a few basic tools and a flashlight. Then, add to your car emergency kit according to weather conditions and your own personal driving circumstances.

Marlene Alexander is a freelance writer and dollar store diva. She writes tips and ideas for home decor using only items from the dollar store.