A roadside emergency kit should be an essential part of any commercial driver’s or trucker's arsenal. In the United States, it is critically important to have a backup plan for absolutely anything. Such kits can help you prepare for unexpected breakdowns, inclement weather events, and the possibility that you could be isolated on roads.

A well-stocked emergency kit ultimately improves driver safety, but it is also a key part of your compliance efforts for working as a professional driver across the United States. Such kits can make a huge difference in your ability to stay resilient to the unexpected, but also help you remain efficient and productive as a driver.

Stay prepared and promote safe driving wherever your journey takes you. Keep your trucks properly maintained, but also develop plans that can address the risks that could come with life on the road.

 Core Safety Equipment Every Trucker Should Carry

Every professional truck driver should maintain several core safety pieces. Use these tips to prepare your own emergency kit that you can take with you anywhere on the road.

A selection of warning devices is of great importance, where things like reflective triangles, road flares, and LED hazard lights can be used for a multitude of occasions. In the event you need to conduct a tire change or you experience a collision, having such pieces of equipment readily available can work to keep you safe. Further, these items can help drivers flag down help in the event of reduced visibility, but also warn other drivers of potential dangers on the road.

Further, an FMCSA-approved fire extinguisher is a simple choice for including your emergency kit. Fires can happen for a number of reasons, and having an easily accessible fire extinguisher can be a true lifesaver for truck drivers and the general public. Ensure that it is properly maintained and adheres to any expiration dates. Additionally, a simple first aid kit can help you address any unexpected cuts, bumps, or bruises you may experience on the road.

And finally, a small collection of high-visibility gear, including safety vests and gloves, can ensure you can be spotted for any kind of emergency. For those working throughout colder weather, an emergency blanket or a second pair of warm clothes are great ideas as well. Winter weather can create incredibly challenging conditions, and just having a high-visibility vest available can help keep your drivers safe. 

Essential Tools for Breakdowns and Minor Repairs

Any experienced driver knows that anything can happen on the road, including unexpected breakdowns or equipment malfunctions. Minor repairs are part of the job, and planning ahead for such issues can save you both time and money. Avoid such headaches with an emergency kit specifically for roadside repairs.

Consider packing basic hand tools, including wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, and a utility knife that can help make small repairs easier to complete. A well-stocked tire repair kit is also important, and should include a tire pressure gauge, sealant, and emergency inflation tools. 

Of course, jumper cables or a jump starter specifically designed for your rig is a simple option, along with a high-powered flashlight and extra batteries. In some cases, drivers may prefer a headlamp to ensure their hands are free while working on any repairs. Whatever the case may be, having the right tools on hand can ensure your drivers remain productive even when challenges present themselves.

Having an emergency set of tires is another option, where truck drivers can replace a tire roadside as needed.

Weather and Seasonal Emergency Supplies

For those working through the central United States, including cities like Pittsburgh, you should know all too well that you could face both warm and cold weather conditions. In winter, an ice scraper is a simple option, but also consider bringing along traction mats, extra antifreeze, hand warmers, and an emergency blanket. Being stuck roadside during a blizzard is an unpleasant experience, and having these items can truly act as a lifesaver.

Commercial drivers should also prepare for extreme heat, as the sun can pose risks to you and your rig. Extra coolant, sunscreen, hydration packs, and gear that can offer shade are all important considerations. Rain ponchos are also incredibly helpful, along with a tarp to help you address issues related to heavy rainfall.

Personal Essentials for Long-Haul Safety

Taking care of yourself is also important, as poor weather or driving conditions can leave drivers stranded, sometimes for many hours at a time.

Back-up food and water can help prepare you for unexpected breakdowns, where non-perishable snacks, bottled water, and energy bars are incredibly helpful in the event you are stranded roadside. Personal hygiene supplies are also a good option, where items like wipes, sanitizer, and paper towels can help you stay clean and fresh regardless of where you are. Consider the comfort of drivers and prepare them for the absolute worst-case scenario with an assortment of backup food and water. 

Back-up clothing suitable for cold weather, including warm socks and mitts, is often overlooked, but are essential items for weathering winter temperatures.

Back Up Emergency Communication

Navigation issues are a common occurrence for any roadside emergency or unplanned event. It’s not uncommon for smartphones to run out of battery or for GPS systems to lack proper updates. As such, as a driver, you should be prepared for absolutely anything. 

Having a fully-charged power bank is of great use, helping you charge your phone in an emergency. Many power banks also offer emergency lighting and can sometimes be recharged via your truck’s battery. CB radios are also great to help you call for help, while paper maps or other printed route plans are helpful in the event your cellular device is lost, stolen, or breaks down. For especially long assignments, a satellite-enabled phone can help your drivers stay connected even across the most isolated roads.

Emergency Documentation and Contacts

Key documents for each driver should also be readily accessible, where vehicle registration and insurance documents should be on hand and up-to-date. Consider having a document dedicated to your own personal medical information, including an emergency contact list that could be quickly accessed in the event of an emergency. Your roadside assistance numbers and company dispatch contacts should also be stored alongside your key paperwork.

Maintenance & Inspection Tips for Emergency Kits

Simply having an emergency kit is just the first step towards ensuring the safety of you and other drivers. Consider restocking and inspecting your emergency kit every six months, while replacing expired or damaged items as needed. Consider storing your emergency items in a waterproof tote, while customizing its contents depending on your needs, route type, or weather conditions.

Building a Company-Wide Safety Culture

Safety is an all-important element to any corporate culture. Promoting safer roads and protecting those who share the roads with your drivers is a group project that requires extensive commitment and training. Safety should be the backbone of your workplace culture, actively preventing incidents before they occur. 

The drivers who get behind the wheel of their trucks have a moral and legal obligation to drive safely to keep themselves and others safe. Encourage your fleets to standardize emergency kits while training drivers on how to use each item correctly. Such education and knowledge can be huge difference makers for drivers across the state of Ohio.

Further, consider making rules regarding the recording and careful reporting of roadside incidents, working to improve roads, and tailoring your company culture to emphasize safety above all else. Truly, your efforts as a fleet manager or employer can save lives. Take the time necessary to promote a culture of safety before issues ever occur.

Point Spring & Driveshaft Co. Is Your Partner in Driver Safety 

Emergency kits are essential parts of safe roads, and the time spent on preparing such kits can ultimately save time, money, and lives. Long-haul drivers should regularly inspect such safety kits while participating in regular training to ensure safer roads and improved compliance.

Point Spring & Driveshaft Co. is your partner in promoting ongoing safety in your trucking company. We continue to partner directly with fleet managers and trucking companies who require both specialized parts and service.

Lean on our professionals for an incredible range of truck services, including repair, maintenance, and so much more. Our fleet services work with owners to meet and exceed state and industry safety standards, helping your drivers keep roads safe wherever they may be heading. Ensure ongoing compliance with any and all regulations and keep your trucks and drivers prepared for anything.

Visit our online store and truck services to learn more about our offerings. Contact Point Spring directly to learn more. We are proud to offer exceptional service excellence across the great state of Ohio.