What to Keep in Your Trunk

We live in our cars. Commuting to work, running errands on the weekends, heading out for vacation-it's a lot of time behind the wheel. Whether you live in the city or further out, you need to be prepared for emergencies. Your trunk is not just where you stash groceries and a camping chair-it's the place you need to keep emergency supplies as well. Grab a milk crate and load it up!

Blankets - Whether a last minute football game, or a stop to pick up bales of hay, a blanket can help protect you and your car. And as the weather cools, it will keep you warm as you wait for help.

Radio - When weather conditions start to get iffy, a battery or crank-powered radio can provide you with basic information about weather and emergency conditions.

Food and water - If you have ever been on a highway that closed for hours, you know that it is essential. A few bottles of water and food like nuts, jerky, granola bars and other snacks with a long shelf life will keep a bad situation from getting worse.

Jumper cables - These can enable you to get your car started with a dead battery and to help someone out of a fix.

First aid kit - Critical to saving a life in an emergency.

Towels - A few old towels can act as makeshift blankets, help dry off from the rain, and help get you out of the mud or snow. And if you have kids, you know they tend to fall into ponds and forget their towel at the beach.

Duct tape - The ultimate helper. You just never know when you will need it!

Fix-a-flat - Flat tire or leak? This little can will get you to the service station. Even if you have roadside assistance, in bad weather you can't always count on when they will get to you.

Road flares - These will keep you safe at night so that others can see you if you need to change a tire or pull over in an emergency.

Flashlight (and extra batteries) - Too many uses to list. But you will use it!

WD-40 - You can get a small can for emergencies to loosen any lug nuts or bolts that won't come loose.

Portable battery charger - If you live north of the Mason Dixon line, you know that a portable battery charger can be a lifesaver. If your battery is dead and you are out of regular traffic, this small battery will get you home.

Road salt or kitty litter - In winter, this serves two purposes: 1) If your car is rear-wheel drive, the extra weight will help with traction. 2) When stuck on the ice, or in snow that has become ice, salt or litter will provide traction to get you out of a fix.

Shovel - Mother Nature and the snow plow have a way of burying your car during winter months. Whether you need to dig yourself or someone else out, this is an invaluable tool in the winter.

Hat, scarf, and gloves - If you are stranded and need to walk for help, these items can keep you from frostbite. Since we don't always grab them for a quick trip to the store, keep extras for emergencies.

A little planning and keeping these supplies handy will let you be prepared for any emergency that comes your way.

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