Some Ideas on Road Trip Readiness from our Long Beach Auto Body Shop

Cars are becoming more and more reliable but accidents and mishaps will happen sooner or later. And road-trip season is coming! You might want to think about how to survive if you find yourself stuck in the middle of nowhere with your car. It can happen in any number of ways whether it's an accident, an overheated engine, a skid or a tire blowout. You want to be prepared.

With our busy California roads it's not very likely you’ll be stranded for long, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. You'll want to be ready for any situation, from first aid to keeping yourself hydrated to doing small fixes to the car on your own. Also, you may not always be traveling alone – you might have to think about supplies for other people including children. Here’s what you should keep in your car to stay safe and ready:

Roadside Automotive Supplies

The most likely scenario is you'll be waiting at the side of the road for emergency services or a tow truck to arrive. Having water on hand is essential in the heat for to prevent dehydration or to rinse any dirt from injuries. Water can also come in handy if you’re having issues with your radiator. If you’re stuck on the side of the road always pull over as far as you can and use flares or hazard lights increase your visibility.

Other supplies that come in handy in the event of car trouble are:

• Flashlight

• Gas can

• Extra oil

• Jumper cables

• Tire pressure gauge and inflator (canister or cigarette-lighter powered)

• Spare tire and jack

• Fire extinguisher

• Duct tape

• Drinking water

• Cellphone charger

• Whistle

• Blankets

• Battery-operated or hand-cranked radio

• Tow chain

Essentials If You're Stranded

Going off-roading? There's a lot of great camping, hiking and off-roading country out there and you want to be ready. Being stuck out of range is the most dangerous when you’re without a cellphone, far from civilization or injured. Of course, every situation will be different, but a number of supplies will help in almost any emergency situation.

• Pack snacks - energy bars work great.

• Lotsof water – one gallon of water per person per day is recommended

• Batteries/chargers

• A first-aid kit that includes bandages, tape, burn supplies, splints, painkillers, and other supplies.

• Foldable shovel

• Toiletries and sanitizing wipes, containers for waste

• Sleeping bags, tarps, space blankets and other supplies to keep warm

• A loud whistle for attracting help

• Emergency weather radio

Prevention and Maintenance Ideas

Having an emergency kit is a great idea, but there are a few things you should do to prevent you needing it. Regular automotive maintenance can go a long way to help avoid issues that may strand you. Check your tires, fluids, battery and gas levels before heading out. Pay attention to weather forecasts before venturing into potentially dangerous terrain. Beautiful California mountains and deserts are well worth visiting but can easily become treacherous with a mishap or change in weather.

Hopefully you'll have a great road trip and won't need us. But if you do, we'll be happy to help. Give us a call at 562-426-2639 and we'll take care of the rest.