Emergencies you might encounter in your vehicle can range from a flat tire in downtown Denver to being stranded in a snowy ravine for three days.  So you may want to consider a basic car emergency kit to keep in your vehicle at all times and also a travel kit that’s tailored to a specific trip.

Your close-to-home kit should include some basic items to work on your car, plus all the items you would need to change a tire, and also gloves, a couple quarts of oil, some anti-freeze and water.  A can of tire inflator is a good temporary fix for minor flats.  You’ll also want to have jumper cables or a booster box, flares, a flashlight and some basic hand tools.

Now for your comfort and safety:  a first aid kit, drinkable water, high calorie food, ( like energy bars) blankets, toilet paper, cell phone, towel, hat and boots.  Keep some change for a pay phone, emergency cash and a credit card.  If you live in an area in Colorado with frequent severe weather or an area where you might experience extreme conditions, you may want to carry provisions for longer emergencies.

For trips away from Denver, consider the weather and geography as you assemble your emergency items for your vehicle.  You’ll need to have a source of light and heat and will want to provide protection against the elements as well as adequate food and water for every person in your vehicle.  Always tell someone where you are going and have a plan for checking in along the way.  Then if you run into trouble, you can be reported missing as soon as possible and rescuers will be able to narrow the search area.  The key to safe travel is to keep your vehicle properly maintained, plan ahead, and let others know your itinerary.