Imagine this: you’re driving through Waterloo Region on a sunny afternoon, headed to a business meeting or family barbecue, when your car suddenly refuses to start. Or worse, a flat tire leaves you stranded on the side of the road. It happens more often than we’d like to admit, and while calling for roadside assistance is essential, having a few basics in your trunk can make the difference between panic and peace of mind.
In our guide on Stuck on the Side of the Road? How WR Towing Saves Your Summer in Waterloo Region, we explained how professional towing can get you out of sticky situations fast. But before the tow truck arrives, these 5 essential emergency items can keep you safe and prepared.
Imagine this: you’re driving through Waterloo Region on a sunny afternoon, headed to a business meeting or family barbecue, when your car suddenly refuses to start. Or worse, a flat tire leaves you stranded on the side of the road. It happens more often than we’d like to admit, and while calling for roadside assistance is essential, having a few basics in your trunk can make the difference between panic and peace of mind.
In our guide on Stuck on the Side of the Road? How WR Towing Saves Your Summer in Waterloo Region, we explained how professional towing can get you out of sticky situations fast. But before the tow truck arrives, these 5 essential emergency items can keep you safe and prepared.
1. Jumper Cables (or a Portable Jump Starter)
A dead battery is one of the most common reasons drivers get stuck. Having jumper cables means another driver can help you restart your car quickly.
For even more independence, consider investing in a portable jump starter, no second vehicle is needed.
2. First-Aid Kit
Accidents don’t always involve vehicles, sometimes, it’s a small cut, scrape, or burn while handling your car. A well-stocked first-aid kit can help treat minor injuries while waiting for help.
The Canadian Red Cross provides a handy checklist on what to include in your first-aid kit.
3. Reflective Triangles or Road Flares
If your car breaks down at night or in bad weather, being visible to other drivers is crucial. Reflective warning triangles or LED flares alert oncoming traffic that you’re pulled over, keeping you safe while you wait for assistance.
Think of it as your “safety shield” when stranded on the roadside.
4. Spare Tire and Tire Tools
Flat tires are almost a rite of passage for drivers and often happen at the worst possible time. Always make sure your car has:
- A properly inflated spare tire
- A jack
- A lug wrench
5. Emergency Supplies: Blanket, Water & Snacks
Breakdowns can sometimes mean long waits. A warm blanket, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks ensure you and your passengers stay comfortable until help arrives.
During summer heatwaves or winter snowfalls in Waterloo, these basics can make a huge difference.
Breakdowns can sometimes mean long waits. A warm blanket, bottled water, and non-perishable snacks ensure you and your passengers stay comfortable until help arrives.
During summer heatwaves or winter snowfalls in Waterloo, these basics can make a huge difference.
While it’s not something you “pack”, your phone is your lifeline in any roadside emergency. Call WR Towing on +1-519-861-1211 if you ever find yourself stranded you can call for help right away.
Emergencies happen when we least expect them. Keeping these five essentials in your car not only keeps you safe but also buys you peace of mind until professional help arrives.