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Vehicle Emergency Preparedness

Your vehicle is where you might be when an emergency happens — and where you need to get home from. Being prepared makes both situations safer.

Emergency vehicle kit spread out on car trunk

Why This Category Matters

Vehicle emergencies — flat tires, dead batteries, running out of fuel, or being stuck during a storm — are among the most common situations where preparedness matters. Your vehicle is also where you may be when a regional emergency starts.

Where to Start

1
Jumper cables or portable jump starter in the trunk
2
Tire changing equipment (verify spare tire, jack, lug wrench)
3
Water and snacks stored in the vehicle
4
First aid kit in the glove compartment
5
Car phone charger and paper maps

Guides in This Category

The Complete Vehicle Emergency Kit Guide

Everything you need in your car for both roadside emergencies and being away from home in a crisis.

Winter Car Emergency Preparedness

What to add to your vehicle kit for winter — getting stuck in snow, cold weather and battery failure, and…

What to Do When Your Car Breaks Down During an Emergency

How to handle a vehicle breakdown during a regional emergency — staying safe, getting help, and making…

Building a First Aid Kit for Your Car

What to include in a vehicle first aid kit — different needs than a home kit, and what to prioritize for…

Common Mistakes

  • Not starting because it seems overwhelming
  • Skipping the planning step and jumping to gear
  • Not reviewing and updating preparedness annually