Car Preparedness: Fairfax Prepares Day 28

Posted 2:40 p.m.

In our recent emergency information survey, we asked about steps you have taken to be prepared. Two-thirds of respondents indicated that home preparedness kits have been created, far exceeding typical preparedness numbers nationwide. Many of our tips in this series address items you should include in your kits.

But what about your car?

Many of us drive in our community, be it across the county, into D.C. or other neighboring jurisdictions. It’s no secret many of us commute, often for long periods of time.

If you drive, then please consider a small stash of supplies for your vehicle. Only about 33 percent of survey respondents indicated they have supplies in their cars.

What should be in a car preparedness kit? Here’s a sampling of ideas across all seasons:

• Blanket
• Clothes with warm, comfortable footwear
• Diapers if you have children
• First-aid kit 
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Food, such as snack bars
• Ice scraper/brush and snow shovel
• Jumper cables
• Knife
• Maps
• Paper towels
• Phone charger
• Plastic bag with seal for waste
• Sand, salt or kitty litter
• Sign to request help
• Soap
• Towels
• Water

Also, it’s critical to ensure you have at least a quarter tank of gas in case there are massive traffic delays. You may recall the January 2011 snowstorm that caused many people to be on the roads for 10+ hours. Try to always be prepared with gas and many of the supplies listed above.

THE ASK: Find a small bag and place in your car with as many items listed above as possible.

TELL US you’ve done this:

• Post a quick reply in this blog’s comments section below such as “I’ve done this.”
• Use the Twitter hashtag #fairfaxprepares and tweet your accomplishment. Include photos if you’d like.
• Like our special Facebook page for this campaign to leave comments and share tips with your friends.
• Email us at publicaffairs@fairfaxcounty.gov that you accomplished an ask.

SHARE THIS TIP:

• Click the links below to email, share on social media or print a hard copy. Thanks!