Prepare for roadside emergencies - Not just Volvo owners

I usually list these emergency procedures in advance of winter months.  But, as I looked them over, I realized that most of these steps are applicable year-round. 

First, it is important to prepare some things for your vehicle, just in case anything happens.  Here are some suggestions of how to be prepared:

1. Have emergency numbers in your car/wallet (include local towing, roadside assistance, your insurance company, and even personal emergency contacts)

2. Pack a gym bag in the back seat or truck of your vehicle with:

• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Warm boots and socks
• Rain Poncho
• Gloves
• Pair of pants/jeans
• Twin blankets
• "Please call for help" windshield banner

3. You can buy or make yourself a Roadside Kit:

• Jumper Cables or a Portable Jumper Box
• 3 Road-side flares
• First Aid Kit
• Tire Guage

4. Pack your cell phone and keep a cigarette lighter adaptor in your vehicle.

If an emergency occurs while you are driving, here are the basics on How To React:

• If your vehicle has a problem on the highway, always try to safely merge to the right shoulder.
• If an emergency arises, and you have a cell phone with you, call for help
• Set your flashers and stay calm
• if you are on the shoulder of a busy road, exit your vehicle on the passenger side, away from traffic, to get your supplies from the trunk.
• If you do not have a cell phone, get out your "Please Call for Help" banner and place it in your back windshield.
• Stay in your locked car as much as possible.
• If someone stops to help, stay in your car.  If you want to talk to them, roll down your window 2-3 inches, not enough to allow a hand to come through.
• If needed, place flares behind your vehicle.