Summertime in Seattle is full of fun activities to do out in the sun with friends and family. For many people, the sunnier days ahead mean more car trips to the park, hiking destinations, lakes, the beach, road trips, and many other fun summer activities. However, it is best to plan ahead of time to make sure that you pack the essentials in order to handle whatever roadblocks may come your way during your summertime outings.

Before you head out to enjoy the heat, make sure that you’re prepared with these 5 essentials:

First Aid Kit: From minor cuts and bruises to headaches, first aid kits are always a convenient way to remedy self-treatable injuries on the go. With more people going on camping trips, days at the lake, and visits to the park, it’s hard to avoid the occasional bump or bruise. You can be prepared at the moment to treat any minor injuries with a well-equipped, portable first aid kit in the car. Some recommended items to put in your first aid kit include bandages, instant cold packs, disposable gloves, antiseptic wipes, hand sanitizer, and antibiotic ointment.

Spare Tires and Tools: Nothing throws a wrench in fun summer plans like a flat tire. Instead of waiting for roadside assistance, be prepared with the tools necessary to change your flat, plus spare tires for a quick fix. Keep in mind that increased driving during the summer and potentially uneven terrain on road trips can easily cause a flat.

Jumper Cables: Most people know the sinking feeling of turning the ignition to find that the engine won’t start. Dead car batteries can strike for a number of reasons, including headlights or cabin lights left on for an extended period of time, lack of routine maintenance, and corrosion. By packing some jumper cables, you should be able to find another car to give you a quick jump to continue on your journey. 

Fire Extinguisher: Fires spread alarmingly fast, but using a fire extinguisher can keep small fires under control in and around your vehicle. Fire extinguishers are portable and can easily be kept in the trunk of your car as an extra safety precaution. 

Flash Light: Problems under the hood? Make sure to pack a flashlight so you can get a good look at what is going on under the hood of your car, day and night. Flashlights can also be helpful for situations such as tire changes and hooking up jumper cables, should you need to do so at night. 

If your car needs a checkup before your summer plans kick off, come see us at A1 Auto Body in Lynnwood, Washington! We specialize in car collision repair, restoration services, and painting and polishing. We are also an approved auto body repair shop through most major insurance companies. Schedule a free estimate with us today!