• Be prepared for disaster in your car.car image by Brett Bouwer from Fotolia.com
  
  No matter how cautious you are, accidents will happen. You could be stuck in your car after running off the road in a secluded area or after a natural disaster such as a flood or tornado. Being prepared is the key to surviving a difficult situation and having emergency supplies in your vehicle is essential to being prepared.
  
  

First Aid Supplies

• Prepackaged first aid kits are available at many retailers, or you can put together your own. Be sure to include adhesive bandages and an antiseptic spray or cream as well as soap and a thermometer. Pack sterile gauze in 2- and 4-inch pads along with 2- and 3-inch rolls. Scissors, gloves, needles and safety pins should also be included. Add in nonprescription medications such as aspirin, antacids and antihistamines and you will be prepared for injuries and illness.
  
  

Food

• An emergency food supply should be large enough to last three days and needs to contain nonperishable foods that do not need to be cooked. Include foods that are good sources of energy such as peanut butter, trail mix, crackers and granola bars. Canned fruits, vegetables and meats that do not require water to prepare should also be included. If packing canned drinks such as juices or milk, choose brands that do not require extra water. Avoid foods that will cause thirst, such as salty or spicy items, and remember to pack a can opener.
  
  

Water

• According to FEMA, a gallon of water per person per day is needed and at least three days of water should be stored for an emergency. Store water in clean plastic containers that will not break down. Avoid milk jugs since they will decompose rapidly in heat. Rotate your emergency water supply at least every six months to ensure fresh water with no bacterial growth.
  
  

Supplies

• An emergency supply kit needs to include at least one flashlight with extra batteries and a few signal flares. Paper supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels and rags should also be included. A supply of emergency cash or checks is a good thing to have on hand, just be sure to keep them well concealed in case your car is ever stolen or broken in to. Keep a warm blanket in the trunk and a pen and paper or a help sign.
  
  

Special Items

• Take into consideration the special needs of the people who may be with you in an emergency. Include canned baby formula, extra diapers and wipes if you have an infant. If any members of your family require daily medications, be sure to include a supply in case it is needed. Sanitary napkins should be packed for women, and copies of important documents should be kept as well.
  
  

Vehicle Supplies

• Keep a set of jumper cables in your trunk that are at least 12 feet long as well as several quarts of oil. Extra fuses, screwdrivers, pliers, vice grips and an adjustable wrench should also be included. In case of a flat tire always keep a can of tire inflator, a tire pressure gauge, especially if you do not carry a spare tire and a jack. Antifreeze, a small shovel for snow, cat litter and an ice scraper will also need to be included if you live in an area with freezing winters. A roll of duct tape can be used to fix leaking hoses and other small problems and should be included.