Monday, December 3, 2012

EDC Vehicle

I see a lot of YouTube videos posted with people and their EDC as well as bug out bags. If you are unfamiliar with what EDC is view this link http://nelsoncycles.blogspot.com/2012/09/wilderness-survival-and-being-prepared.html but I feel like too many people are forgetting the obvious keep some useful things in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Most people are spending all of their time explaining what you should keep in your car bug out gear wise incase of… insert your favorite apocalypse scenario here, but what about real everyday emergencies? So here are my thoughts on what should be in every vehicle before you start considering stockpiles of food, ammo, and guns (not that I am against having extras of any of those). So with winter coming this is what I would keep.

If you drive a car you should have AAA or know how to change your own tire and have the appropriate tools need which should be included in the car but take it out and learn how to use it.

First aid kits are a must. It can be as simple as some gauze pads and duct tape or as advanced as your medical training deems needed.

Flares are nice for signaling for help, starting fires, and increasing visibility after a crash to prevent a second impact until rescue personal secure the scene.

High visibility vest medics, police, firefighters, all wear these because they save lives if you are changing that tire alongside a busy free way don’t let it hurt your pride to throw on a safety vest.

Bottled water is a must it is less useful in the winter due to freezing but it’s better to have some then not.

Ice scrapper with a snow brush should be kept in the car. You would think this would be dumb to mention but I couldn’t count how many times in the dead of winter I see someone using their sleeve to wipe off the 4 inches of snow that fell while they were at work.

Phone charger so you can charge your dead phone to call AAA when you are too lazy to change your flat.

Blankets are wonderful in the winter in case your vehicle is broken down or you come across an emergency. Space blankets are fine but cheap wool blankets are better.

I always keep a change of clothes in my car just because who knows what the day will bring.

Flash light; even though it’s in my EDC and on my handgun I still keep one in my glove box (not drop box Shelby) so it is there if I need it with spare batteries.

Food of some type is great anything that stores well and can tolerate the temperature changes of a vehicle. I am always hungry so I have a cliff bar in my pocket or in my belly at all times. So it’s nice to restock from my car when needed.

Snow chains; when you live in the mountains these are on the must have list and are worth their weight in gold.

Oil dry is great if you have an older vehicle to be courteous but it is also a great traction agent for when you can’t get up that steep driveway but rock salt is also an obvious choice.

Cash is always smart to keep but don’t leave too much laying about or you are asking for a broken window.

Gun safe is optional but if you want to keep a gun in your car it is a wise idea.

These are the few things I kept in my cars before I converted to two wheels only. If you have any suggestions or comments let me know. Am I forgetting anything?  I will be posting more soon about motorcycle winter ridding after we get a few good snows in.  Don't forget to use your turn signals, park in one parking space, and stay out of the passing lane unless you are passing because I am about one commute away from buying a monster truck and running over everyone!  I mean stay safe out there and have a great winter.

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