Preparing an emergency kit
Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle at all times to help you and your passengers stay safe. Here are some tips on what to pack in a “grab-and-go" emergency kit for your vehicle.
An emergency can happen at any time – that's why it's important to be prepared for the unexpected.
PreparedBC recommends you pack an emergency “grab-and-go" kit for your vehicle. This kit should include:
- Food (ready to eat) and water
- Phone charger and battery bank
- Small battery-powered or hand-crank radio
- Battery-powered or hand-crank flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Small first-aid kit and personal medications
- Personal toiletries and items, such as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses
- Copy of your emergency plan
- Copies of important documents, such as insurance papers and identification
- Cash in small bills
- Local map with your family meeting place identified
- Seasonal clothing including extra clothing if possible, proper footwear, and an emergency blanket or sleeping bag
- Pen and notepad
- Whistle
-
Help/OK signs to display the appropriate side outward in your car window during an emergency
Drivers also need other emergency supplies for their vehicle. These include:
- Windshield scraper, snow brush and extra windshield washer fluid
- Flares, safety matches or a lighter, and candles
- Shovel and traction mat, sand or kitty litter (non-clumping)
- Battery jumper cables
- Tow rope
Additional resources