Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Living Well with the Carrie Connection

Having just spent several days on the road, I realize just how important it is to have a well organized car.

When you get off an airplane late at night and find a flat tire, or the battery has run down, or perhaps the car window has been broken, having the right tools can handle the problem. A car phone can find you help, a car service such as AAA will physically handle the problem, but having a whisk broom and jumper cables could be all you need to get you on the road again.

However, many of us do not carry the items we need in case of an emergency. We depend on the kindness of others  of which many of them are also unprepared. A little time and money spent now could mean all the difference in being safe on the road. The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends the following items for the car:

In the trunk at all times keep jumper cables, flashlight and package of fresh batteries, tire jack, a flare or reflector triangle to warn oncoming traffic in case your car breaks down, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, work gloves and windshield washer fluid.

In the glove compartment or other space inside the car, store maps or street atlas, owner's manual, repair log in which you record every service performed to your car, a multi-use pocketknife, car registration or copy and sunglasses.

In the winter add an ice scraper and snow brush, small shovel, sand or non-clumping cat litter for traction on ice, spray de-icer, a blanket, an empty coffee can and a candle for heat, chocolate and water.

I personally recommend having an umbrella, a whisk broom, pen light and tire gauge in the glove compartment at all times. An automobile well stocked with the basics can make traveling a lot more comfortable and safe. According to the national Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "A disorganized car with clutter floating around can be distracting and increase your chances of crashing."

As you hit the road this summer do not just think about where you are going, but think safety in getting there. Happy traveling.