What Vehicle Emergency Items Should You Keep in Your Vehicle in Case It Breaks Down?

What Vehicle Emergency Items Should You Keep in Your Vehicle in Case It Breaks Down?

A vehicle breakdown can happen when you least expect it—on your daily commute, during a family road trip, or while driving through an unfamiliar area. Flat tires, dead batteries, overheating engines, and unexpected weather conditions can quickly turn a minor inconvenience into a stressful or even dangerous situation. While you may not be able to predict when your vehicle will fail, you can control how prepared you are when it does.

1. Safety and Visibility Items

Your first priority during a breakdown is staying visible and safe—both for yourself and other drivers.

• Reflective warning triangles or road flares to alert oncoming traffic
  
• High-visibility safety vest so drivers can see you clearly
  
• Flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries or rechargeable power)

These items are especially important if you’re stranded on the roadside or dealing with low-light conditions.

2. Jumper Cables or a Portable Jump Starter

A dead battery is one of the most common reasons vehicles won’t start.

• Jumper cables (long and heavy-duty enough to reach another vehicle)
  
• Portable jump starter for situations where no other car is available

A jump starter can be a lifesaver when you’re alone or in a remote area.

3. Tire and Basic Repair Tools

Flat tires and minor issues can sometimes be handled without calling for help.

• Spare tire in good condition
  
• Jack and lug wrench (and knowing how to use them)
  
• Tire pressure gauge
  
• Tire inflator or sealant for temporary fixes
  
• Basic tool kit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)

Even if you’re not comfortable making repairs, these tools can be helpful if roadside assistance arrives.

4. First Aid Kit

Minor injuries can happen during breakdowns, especially if you’re changing a tire or dealing with debris.

• Bandages, antiseptic wipes, and gauze
  
• Pain relievers
  
• Gloves/Blankets
  
• Any personal medications you may need

A compact first aid kit doesn’t take up much space but can be invaluable in an emergency.

5. Communication and Power Essentials

Staying connected is crucial when your vehicle breaks down.

• Fully charged power bank or car charger
  
• Charging cables for your devices
  
• Emergency contact information written down (in case your phone dies)

These items ensure you can call for help, use GPS, or access emergency services.

Stuck on the Side of the Road? Call Us When You Need Us Most!

Preparing an emergency kit for your vehicle is one of the easiest and most practical safety measures you can take as a driver. You don’t need professional mechanical skills or expensive equipment—just a thoughtful selection of tools, safety gear, and personal supplies that address common roadside scenarios. Even basic items like water, a flashlight, or jumper cables can dramatically reduce stress and risk during a breakdown.

When a vehicle breaks down on the side of the road, a specialized towing service is often required to move it safely. Bricen Towing has the experience and equipment needed to provide reliable semi-truck towing services throughout the Brookville, DuBois, and Clearfield areas of Pennsylvania. Vehicle breakdowns can occur unexpectedly and for many different reasons, but our team is standing by to ensure you and your vehicle are safe. Contact us 24/7 to request a tow!