Be Prepared for Roadside Emergencies

One of the most common roadside emergencies is a flat tire. Fix-A-Flat tire sealant can provide a great temporary solution so that you can drive your car to a safe place where you can wait for help or change your tire. If you carry a spare and don't mind replacing the tire yourself, have a good jack and the proper lugwrench on hand. Remember, any time you have to pull over, find the safest place away from the road. Often the shoulder doesn't offer enough stability or protection from speeding traffic.

If you do end up stranded, make yourself visible to oncoming traffic. In many cases, your car's hazard lights don't offer you enough visibility. Road flares and reflective triangles are essential to any emergency kit.

Also, a cell phone can be extremely helpful when you need to call for help on a busy highway or in a remote area. It's always a good idea to have a blanket, gloves and non-perishable food items in case you're stranded for a while in the cold. And, finally, a small shovel can come in handy if you wind up stuck in a snow drift.

All these items as well as pre-packaged emergency kits are available at your local Pep Boys.

In addition, be sure to store the following in your car:

• jumper cables
• water
• batteries
• a set of tools
• kitty litter or sand (for traction)
• antifreeze
• first aid kit

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