Introduction: Survivor Jack's Ultimate Emergency Car Pack
Recent Blizzards have left hundreds stranded in their cars for hours, days - up to a month in one European situation.
Join Me in a real world, thought-game like "The Ultimate Altoids Survival Kit". That one's for a pocket; this game is for Vehicles.
PLEASE give me your feedback about "The Ultimate Emergency Car Kit" that fits in a #10 Can with the Plastic Lid. An empty ‘long-term food storage can’ or a family-sized Coffee can are good examples of this size.
The first photo is an overview of my first one I've assembled. As you read the article, I'll explain why I chose the items I did. As You continue reading, think of other items you'd wish you had IF stuck in your car, especially with others. Post your suggestions.
I appreciate your time & your help!
Step 1: Start With the Basics and Customize to Suit Your Needs
My Kit started with a #10 Container with a tight Lid, 4 large, plastic, double Zip Lock bags. 3 were folded and put into the bottom of the can. I make sure I have a lid that fits tightly to keep moisture in - and out. This is the basis for a simple, inexpensive "Trapped in your vehicle" portable toilet.
Step 2: "I Spent Two Days Trapped in My Car During the Blizzard"
In the core of the toilet paper, we usually keep several tampons for:
- their original purpose
- 1st Aid major bleeding wound plug
- fire starting material
the bag can be 'double sealed' and the lid snapped back on. When the first bag is 'full', you have several spares.
Step 3: What Do We Do With the Empty Space? PT 1
I added:
- Cotton - 1st Aid / fire starter material
- Lighter for starting fires or light
- Medicine Bottle - water resistant method for storing cotton & .........? (Needle & dental floss, or ...)
- Hand Sanitizer
- Razor - shaving face or around a wound / small blade
- Magnesium Fire Starter - IF I have a chance to build one (warmth, cooking, melt snow, bring water to a boil, defense)
- ALL of the small liquid items will be stored in the small plastic bag. In case they leak, it won't ruin the toilet paper.
Step 4: Empty Space? PT 2
- Small, prepackaged 'Hotel/Motel' soap
- Foot Warmers
- Liquid Hand Soap - green bottle in photo (I later replaced it with one of my Wife's asthma inhalers)
- 2 Tampons
- Jumbo, Double Zip Lock Bag that toilet paper will be sealed inside before packing the rest
The Trick in this Mind Exercises is ---- What would you add? We're running out of space at this point.
- A Spare Folding Knife?
- A deck of playing cards?
- LED flashlight and batteries?
I am going to add two 'dry' granola bars, for example. A Hand-cranked .Radio was too bag. Small Ham Radio?
Step 5: Packing Your "Survivor Jack Ultimate Car Pack"
Much like packing your 72 Hour Bag (or Get Home Kit), you want to think "What might I need first?" Those items go on the top.
We know our "Survival Toilet" scenario is a last resort so "spare bags" on the bottom is Okay BUT remember IF you needed water, you carry spare water containers. (Drinking or a low radiator, for example)
Foot warmers & sanitation supplies can be at the bottom also.
The PHOTO is a little misleading. In real world, the liquid soap, hand sanitizer and lighters are placed in the small plastic bag to prevent leakage damage.
I really want your suggestions below.
Since "finishing" this article, I've decided to add four emergency blankets to this Jack Pack. My trade off is - I'm going to remove the cardboard core from the center of the toilet paper roll and compress it. (I'm thinking of trying a 'Vacuum Seal' to maximize the space.)
FYI - In my car, I also carry a 72 Hour Bag, a 'gym bag' with a change of clothes & blanket or 'Winter Gear". Those tend to wind up in a trunk when the car's full. The #10 Can is easily accommodated in the passenger cabin during an Emergency..
What Would You Add?
Ask Yourself Right Now - IF I were stuck in a vehicle in a blizzard (worst case scenario), what else would I want within reach that fits in our #10 Can?
PS: IF you are curious about What lead to my Creating "Survivor Jack™", take a look at "Letters From Haiti & Japan". It's 8:30 - all education - no commercials. Learn what I saw and Didn't See about these major disasters.
Survivor Jack™
Be Honest, Be Excellent & Walk About Prepared®
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