When you drive a truck as your job, there is a pretty good chance that you’ll be doing it all alone. This can be a problem since, when emergencies happen, you only have a single pair of hands to work with. Fortunately, you can prepare for the bad times by being ready for anything. Have the following items on your truck so that you can either avoid or handle an emergency with no extra problems.
A GPS
With GPS being available, it is negligent not to have it on your truck. This navigation system ensures that you are on the right road and not lost. Besides providing you with your location, it will tell you where you need to go to reach your destination. It will reduce your problems with navigating the roads.
An Up-to-Date Road Atlas
This is what you need in case the GPS goes down. A good road map is a necessity when you are on the road all the time. Pick a road map that focuses on the route that you are traveling. Plus, pick one that is as new as possible. Many things can change in five years though, and yearly updates are better.
A Toolbox
Although there are many repair shops on the way, you won’t always break down near one. This is why you need a good tool box. A tool box for your semi-truck should have all the common tools you’ll need for on the road repairs. But don’t limit yourself to truck repairs. There may be a need for other repair duties, so having a good set of tools will be able to help.
First-Aid Kit
It is not only mechanical things that can break down on the road. A simple first-aid kit can be a lifesaver at times. Check that it has bandages, disinfectants, and supply of over-the-counter medicines. Some of these kits even have guidebooks included to guide people on what to do. Pain killers can be a big help, especially if you get hit by headaches. The first-aid kit is not for you alone, though. So, make it accessible so that you can get it in a moment’s notice.
Night and Bad-Weather Gear
As a truck driver, you most likely have a deadline to meet. This means that you’ll need to forge on despite the external conditions. To make that happen, you need to carry gear that will allow you to operate in non-daytime conditions. For nighttime, you’ll want to have a flashlight and emergency lights. The flashlight can also double as a way to check your truck over when needed.
For inclement weather gear, you’ll need a good waterproof jacket and some heavy boots. Whether it is rain or snow, you’ll need to keep yourself warm and dry out there.
There are many unknowns on the road. Having the right tools on hand makes it easier for you in the long run. The list above should help round out your own list of travel essentials. With their help, you can be confident that you are ready for anything that might happen.