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10 Aug 2019 
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Today\’s truck drivers have to be versatile in their line of work. Their driving skills should be outstanding, but they may have to save a life, prevent a disaster, or fix a mechanical malfunction in a moment\’s notice. This is why it is important to have some basic supplies before and after emergencies arise.
The commercial trucking industry offers the best rigs on the market and most are equipped with the best in modern technology. But, you must make and maintain your own kit. The items you use can be designed to assist on short trips or long distance hauls to remote locations. Here are some of the essential items that should be inside your emergency kit.
Flashlight
A good, working flashlight is an ideal tool at night. You never know what could go wrong once the sun sets. Experienced truckers will suggest purchasing a flashlight that turns on-and-off by motion. Others prefer having a flashlight that is battery-operated. If you choose the battery option, pack spare batteries inside your emergency kit as well.
Utility knife
A utility knife is an invaluable tool for any truck driver that can be used on a daily basis. Its versatility becomes necessary on the road. Utility knives can open a can of food, measure the tread depth of the tires, and cut cloth to make a tourniquet for an accident victim.
Safety flags and hazard warning signs
Two of the more important items needed in an emergency kit are safety flags and hazard warning signs. Both tools are used to alert other drivers of possible dangerous driving conditions ahead that could delay their travels on the road. This will help them to use extra caution when nearing your location. Safety flags come in a variety of colors so you should always have the right one for any situation.
The Department of Transportation requires all commercial trucks be equipped with hazard warning signs. These are used to alert other drivers on the road of a truck\’s oversized cargo load, giving them time to stay clear of the commercial vehicle.
Breaker bar
A breaker bar can loosen lug nuts off a blown tire during the replacement process. An advantage of having a breaker bar inside the emergency kit is that it provides more torque than a standard socket. In other emergency situations, a breaker bar can offer more helps by removing, lifting, or destroying objects that
Vice-grip pliers
A pair of vice-grip pliers is another useful tool for a truck driver to have in an emergency kit. These pliers can hold a part in place while repairing the vehicle. Also, it might be wise to keep a set of screwdrivers with multiple heads along side your vice-grip pliers. Together, these tools can repair many parts of your commercial truck.
Tire pump
If space is a problem, you should have at least a tire gauge inside your emergency kit. But, a tire pump is essential for long distance hauls. This becomes a valuable tool during roadside stops. Experienced truck drivers prefer a tire pump that comes with a pressure gauge and a built-in flashlight.
Mallet or hammer
Depending on the location and distance of your trip, a mallet or hammer will become a handy tool to loosen pieces off the truck during repair or after an accident. Also, a mallet or hammer can help to create a wider opening to escape a dangerous situation that restricts your movement.
Trailer safety ladder
It is important to know how to prevent emergencies as well as deal with them. One emergency that truckers can experience is slipping or falling, especially flatbed truck drivers. Loading, unloading, and checking cargo is a daily task and you should be prepared to stay safe. Using a flatbed safety ladder can help you access your cargo without worrying about falling in any kind of weather.
Other essential items found inside an emergency kit
Some of the items found inside an emergency kit are designed to repair a commercial vehicle, while others are needed to protect against the outside elements. These necessary items include the following:
Gloves
Sleeping bag
Ski cap
Non-perishable food
Medical first aid items
Duct tape
Jumper cables
Spare vehicle parts and fluids
Bottled water
A foldable shovel
Maps
Emergency contact numbers
All these items are needed to combat weather-related and mechanical emergencies that truckers can encounter on the road.
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