Posted in Random ramblings

I didn't know that but in honor of the occasion I received this in my inbox.  It's so good that I decided to share it with anyone who reads my blog.  That also makes the info. easy for me to find when I'm ready to assemble my kit.  Here's the article!

Prepare for Auto Emergencies in 15 Easy Steps

When little boys around America join the Boy Scouts, one of the first things they learn is the Scout motto — BE PREPARED.

But what has a boy to be prepared for, other than sword fighting with friends, playing video games, and pestering their sisters?

Funny you should wonder this, in fact, as someone asked Baden-Powell, the founder of Scouting, that very question: "Be prepared for what?"

"Why, for any old thing," Baden-Powell replied.

In this same spirit, every September, National Preparedness Month serves as a gentle reminder that we should do our best to get organized for potential catastrophes, both the big ones and small ones!

The following list will help you ready your wheels for breakdowns, bump-ups, and more.

 Vehicle Emergency Kit Supplies

(1) Buy or put together a first aid kit.

(2) Include a AAA or roadside emergency card and/or insurance card.

(3) Throw in all the necessary equipment to change a tire: working jack, spare tire (with air in it!), lug nut wrench or tire iron, and pipe for leverage. Note: Most of this should already be stored in its designated place in the trunk or hatchback.

(4) Have a flashlight with *fresh* batteries. Note: Check the batteries every few months; extreme heat and cold can drain battery power more quickly than usual.

(5) Include triangle reflectors and flares.

(6) Add rags and a funnel. Note: You can make a simple, inexpensive funnel by using the top of a 2-liter soda bottle.

(7) Purchase all the necessary fluids: 2 qts. of oil, a gallon of water and antifreeze, brake fluid, power-steering fluid (if applicable), and automatic transmission fluid (if applicable).

(8) Add flat and Phillips-head screwdrivers, pliers, and an adjustable wrench. Note: only to be used in an emergency — adjustable wrenches can easily round the head of bolts.

(9) Buy jumper cables. Note: at least eight feet long.

(10) Toss in work gloves or latex gloves, duct tape, a blanket, spare fuses, and a can of Fix-a-Flat.

(11) Purchase a fire extinguisher. Note: Periodically check the expiration date of the extinguisher, replacing when necessary.

Other Tips & Warnings

(12) As a woman, I like to keep pepper spray on my key chain or in my glove box. Maybe I watch a little too much CSI, but sometimes I'm a little wary of strangers trying to help me out, especially on the highway. Better to be safe than sorry, although I'm sad to say it...

(13) If you live in an area with freezing temperatures, keep a collapsible shovel in the car in case you need to dig out of ice or snow. Stash a few extra blankets, warm clothes, and a pair of thick boots and/or snow shoes.

(14) Some other items to consider:

- A knife: can be used in many situations, and if kept in an easy-to-reach location such as a front console, it can cut your seat belt if it gets stuck during an emergency.

- A good book: to pass the time while waiting for service crew.

- A credit card: to pay the service crew in case you have no cash.

- A pillow: naps are also a wonderful way to pass the time.

- A jug of water: to keep hydrated.

- A tasty non-perishable snack or two: in case you're stranded longer than expected or hoped.

- A collapsible beach chair: to enjoy some fresh air and a stretch of the legs.

- A pair of clean underwear: to make momma happy.

(15) Once you have rounded up all your items, invest in a sturdy basket or bin in which to store everything. Be sure to secure the container itself so that it doesn't move freely around your trunk.

© 2009 Clutterbugs, LLC

Would you like to use this article in your e-zine or on your website or blog? You can, as long as you include this complete blurb with it: Carmen Coker is a professional organizer who helps individuals find the motivation and know-how to get organized and stay organized. To learn how to save money, create more space, and manage your time through organization, claim your "FREE Tip Kit: 10+ Pages of Tips and Tools to Help You Get Organized — Finally!" at www.OrganizeClutterbugs.com