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We never know when or where we might find ourselves stranded due to road conditions, weather related issues, or a disaster of any size. Being adequately prepared with the appropriate items will affect your survival. Do you have what it takes? Thank you to CERT Volunteer Ron Sjolander for compiling this information for us!
A car kit enables you to be self-sufficient in the shelter of your car or other nearby facility for the number of days you’ve planned on. If your car is available, the facility could be where you work, volunteer, go to school or other activity. In the event of a sudden evacuation, it could serve as part of an evacuation kit.
In general, your choices are to walk or wait for help when roads damaged by a disaster prevent you from continuing by car to your home or other desired location. If you expect to have to wait for help, the weight of your kit is not as important and additional food and water would be appropriate to extend the comfortable wait time. If you expect to walk to your destination, weight becomes a critical concern. The same conditions that stopped your movement by car might hinder the use of something on wheels. A reasonable backpack loaded with what you can comfortably carry, including provisions to shelter at least one night, is probably your best alternative. Your physical abilities ultimately would dictate the most appropriate choice of equipment in this case.
Below are possible items to consider having in your personal car kit for the two basic choices.
WALK WAIT
First aid kit X X
Medicine taken daily X X
Personal hygiene items, including dental supplies, toilet
paper, hand sanitizer and feminine hygiene products X X
Plastic bags for sanitation, garbage and storage X X
Flashlight(s) and extra batteries X X
Coat1 and rain gear X X
Water2 X X
Food: non-perishable, no preparation items such as peanut
butter, protein bars, packaged tuna, salmon or meat, granola
bars, candy & nuts, packaged or canned fruits3 X X
Pet and infant supplies, if applicable X X
Some cash in small denominations X X
Something to do – games, books, cards X
Backpack (look for good ones in thrift stores) X
Sturdy walking shoes X
Water filter2 X
Temporary shelter items: tarp(s), paracord or other light
rope, emergency blanket(s), fire starter & matches X
Good knife and/or multipurpose tool X
Heavy gloves (leather or work) X
Note 1 - Heavy in winter, lighter in summer. Separate from car kit container or backpack.
Note 2 – Two 1-gallon jugs and some ½ liter bottles separate from kit are enough for
drinking for 3 – 5 days in the car (more is better). Add water filter to save weight.
Note 3 – Add manual can opener if using cans. Cans are not recommended for walking option.
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