Semi Truck Emergency Kit

For any truck driver, emergency kits are an essential part of preparing your truck for winter. Facing the unexpected each day on the road, truck drivers need to be prepared for anything — and a well-stocked truck emergency kit can be a lifesaver! Below, check out the International Used Truck Center guide to building the best roadside emergency kit.

What to Include in an Emergency Kit for Truck Drivers

Knowing what to put in an emergency kit can make the difference between solving problems yourself and getting back on the road — or losing hours as you wait for help to arrive. You already know to pack basics like jumper cables, batteries, a flashlight, and a foldable shovel — but what else? Here are the most important tools and supplies to include in your roadside emergency kit:

• Safety flags and hazard warning signs — Warn other drivers of your presence on or near the road, or of dangerous driving conditions ahead.
• Tool kit — Always include a basic tool kit stocked with screwdrivers, pliers, a box cutter, wrenches, duct tape, fuses and spare headlight bulbs.
• Breaker bar — Use a breaker bar to loosen lug nuts while replacing a blown tire. A breaker bar provides far more torque than a standard socket. It can also be helpful for removing obstructions like rocks or debris.
• Tire pump — No distance haul should be attempted without a tire pump on board. We recommend the type with a built-in pressure gauge and flashlight.
• Snow chains — When the road is slick with snow and ice, nothing will get you moving again like tire chains. Fitted to the drive wheels of your truck, they provide maximum traction.

Tips for Packing a Truck Emergency Kit

There are plenty of items that you might not think about including in a truck driver emergency kit — but they’re actually crucial in a tough situation:

• Socks, a hat and gloves — Stow a warm hat, extra pair of socks, and waterproof gloves keep your hands and feet from freezing. In fact, you may want to keep a full set of cold-weather clothing in your truck emergency kit.
• Non-perishable food — Items such as granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are dense in calories and nutrients, and can be stored in your truck for months.
• Bottled water — Keep several liters on hand in case you aren’t able to access fresh water in an emergency.
• Thermal sleeping bag or blankets — Thermal camping gear will keep you warm if you need to spend a winter night in your cabin.
• Medication — If you take medication, keep an extra supply on hand. Be sure to regularly check the expiration date on the bottle.
• Emergency contacts — Stash a paper copy of important phone numbers in your glovebox. This could come in handy if your phone dies and you need to use another phone to place a call.
• Backpack — Keep all your roadside emergency kit supplies together in a sturdy backpack so that nothing gets lost or damaged.
• First-aid kit — It might go without saying, but head out for a job without one!

Build Your Truck Emergency Kit with International Used Truck Center

Looking for advice while you put together your truck driver emergency kit? The team at International Used Truck Center is standing by to answer any questions you may have. Get in touch today, or visit our truck parts and accessories online store to get started.