Road travel has changed, and cars break down less often these days. Yet unforeseen occurances do happen. For example, do you know the best way to escape from your car if you were trapped by a jammed seat belt? Could you break the window to escape the car if it was under water? This is why a knowledgable driver should prepare for the worst by putting together a smart car emergency survival kit before traveling.

Flat tires and dead batteries happen. If this happens to you in an remote area, could you get back on the road without hours of hassle? A word to the wise is to carry an emergency kit in your car at all times. The best emergency kit for your car is one you design yourself. However, there are basic tools and items you should include in your car's emergency kit.

Two of the basic tools every car should have in the trunk are jumper cables and a spare tire. You also need a good jack designed for stable and quick tire replacement. Remember to include some flares to alert other drivers to slow down and avoid hitting you while you change the car's tire.

There are also times that you will be unable to run the car's engine for heat. Carry a couple extra large blankets in case you are stranded in cold weather. This can save your life by stopping frostbite.

A cell phone is also a traveler's best friend in an emergency. Calling for help early may avoid disaster. Know the right emergency help numbers. Don't hesitate to call for help when it is necesssary.

It is also a good idea to keep a brand new first aid kit in every vehicle you travel in. This can be a big help for burns, cuts and abrasions. This is an important item that you will appreciate should something bad happen.

You will want to keep a sharp knife or cutting tool in the driver's door storage area to cut through a seat belt. Special tools are made specifically for this purpose. You can also use one of these tools to break the window of your car should you become trapped.

Finally, you need to keep a basic tool kit that includes screwdrivers, wrenches, and a socket set for minor emergency repairs. You should also have some different fuses in case one of them happens to burn out.

With an emergency survival kit in your car, your travels should be pleasant and enjoyable. The peace of mind you get from having an emergency kit like this in your car is worth every penny you spend putting it together.

This article may be reprinted in full. The resource box and hyperlink must remain intact.