DIY Car “Survival” Kit: Protect Yourself This Rainy Season

Spring has sprung here in Central Florida, and for us in Polk County, we know that rainy season is just around the corner.  Unfortunately, rainy weather often leads to car accidents, and that can mean you are stuck in your car for a period of time.  Even if you don’t end up stuck in your car, sometimes little life needs or “emergencies” pop up, and you are left unprepared.  Why let it happen to you?

A car “survival” kit can be a smart addition in your trunk or hidden away somewhere else in your car.  Simply grab a plastic bin (these can be found at most big box stores, and even at the dollar store) and fill it up with your chosen items.  It can be as simple or as deluxe as you want, but here are some ideas of what to include…

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Multitool and/or Swiss Army knife
• Basic first aid supplies (bandaids and/or gauze with medical tape, antibiotic ointment, tweezers, alcohol wipes, bottle of pain reliever, etc.)
• Package of disinfectant wipes or baby wipes
• Map of your local area
• Pair of protective work gloves (for changing a tire, doing a car repair, etc.)
• Umbrella and/or poncho
• Box of granola bars or other non-perishable snack (needs to be monitored for expiration date)
• Bottles of water
• Spare towel (dry off yourself, use it to keep warm, protect your seats from grime, etc.)

Most of the items listed above can be found cheaply, or you might already have them hanging around your house.  Simply organize them in your box and you’ll be prepared for the next inconvenience that comes your way, whether it be getting caught in a rainstorm, breaking down, having a flat tire, or worse.  Remember, your “survival” kit can be customized to YOU.  Have young kids?  Consider throwing in some extra snacks, a handful of diapers and maybe a few kid friendly books or small activities that could help entertain little ones in an emergency.  Travel in cold weather regularly?  It would be smart to keep some gloves, a hat, and perhaps a blanket folded along with your kit.  The list of options is endless, but the goal is the same.  Make sure you are prepared for what comes your way.

Just like you prepare yourself for these life emergencies, prepare your car!  Having proper auto insurance coverage means your vehicle is protected against damage caused by an accident, severe weather, and more, depending on your policy.  In a way, it’s protecting you too, by giving you peace of mind.

This year as we face the rain here in Florida, make sure you’re prepared…and make sure your car is ready too!