Car emergency kit
Preparing an emergency kit for your car is the best way to deal with the unexpected while also ensuring your safety and that of your passengers. This is even more true when you consider the harsh Québec winter conditions.
With the season of darkness, strong winds, snowstorms and ice upon us, it’s essential to be prepared for the worst. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of items you’ll want to have handy in your vehicle if you’re faced with severe weather conditions and/or if your vehicle breaks down.
The following list is divided into 4 different sections: safety and survival, vehicle maintenance, electronics and tools, and important documents.
Safety and survival
- Survival blanket or warm blanket: To keep warm in the event of a mechanical breakdown.
- Candles and matches: They generate a little heat and are useful in emergencies.
- Flashlight (battery-powered or hand-cranked) and spare batteries.
- Additional warm clothes: Tuques, gloves, warm socks, coat.
- First-aid kit: Containing bandages, antiseptic products, basic first aid medicine and a knife, in case you need to cut the seatbelt.
- Drinking water: In frost-resistant bottles or insulated containers.
- Non-perishable snacks: Energy bars, nuts, dried fruit.
Vehicle maintenance
- Starter cables: For recharging the battery.
- Folding shovel: For clearing snow or sand.
- Bag of sand or cat litter: Improves traction on ice.
- Snow scraper and broom.
- Tire repair kit: With portable 12V tire pump or puncture-proof spray.
- Tow rope.
- Reflective triangles or flares: To clearly mark your presence.
Electronics and tools
- Cell phone charger: Ideally a portable or solar-powered battery.
- Multifunction tool: With knife, screwdriver, etc.
- Robust adhesive tape: For temporary repairs.
- Work gloves: To protect hands when performing mechanical repairs.
Documents and money
- Emergency contact list: Family, insurance, towing.
- A small amount of cash: For the unexpected (gas station, tolls).
- Notebook and pencil: For recording information.
Make your own kit!
A car emergency kit is not a luxury: it is an essential precaution, especially when facing Québec winters.
By putting together safety and vehicle maintenance items, practical tools and important documents, you’ll drive with peace of mind knowing that you are adequately equipped to deal with any unexpected situation.
Don’t hesitate to refer back to this article when putting your kit together. Take the time to check its contents regularly to make sure everything is in good condition and up to date. Better safe than sorry!
Questions about road safety or car insurance? Your Malouin broker will be happy to discuss them with you.
