Before thinking about power or comfort, think about stopping safely. The trunk is your first line of defense when something goes wrong on the road.
For those just starting out, recognizing simple signs and reacting quickly reduces risks. Below are three common alerts, what to carry, and how to act without improvising.
Sign 1: breakdown or unexpected stop on the shoulder
When the car stops where it shouldn’t, the priority is to be seen. Lack of visibility is the greatest danger.
**What to carry in the trunk** - Reflective warning triangle in good condition - Reflective vest (one for each occupant) - Working flashlight (batteries or charged battery)
**What to do in practice** - Park as far to the right as possible and turn on the hazard lights. - Put on the vest before leaving the car. - Place the triangle farther away on high-speed roads and closer on urban streets.
Sign 2: flat or punctured tire far from help
Changing a tire in the middle of the road can be more dangerous than it seems, especially without the right items.
**What to carry in the trunk** - Properly inflated spare tire - Lug wrench and jack compatible with the car - Simple wheel chock
**What to do in practice** - Stop on a flat, firm surface. - Engage the parking brake and use the chock. - If there is no safe place, prioritize signaling and asking for help.
Connectivity helps when the location doesn’t
In areas without nearby service stations, calling for help quickly makes a difference. A reliable mobile plan — including via eSIM — makes it easier to contact roadside assistance, share location, and make emergency calls without relying on Wi‑Fi.
Sign 3: minor accident or fire risk
Even small collisions require preparation. A small fire can spread quickly.
**What to carry in the trunk** - Fire extinguisher within its validity period and suitable for the vehicle - Basic first aid kit - Disposable gloves
**What to do in practice** - Move people away from the road and signal. - Use the extinguisher only if it’s safe and the fire is small. - Provide simple first aid and call specialized help.
Quick check that avoids surprises
Set aside two minutes each month to check: - Fire extinguisher validity - Flashlight operation - Spare tire pressure - Triangle integrity
An organized trunk is a safe trunk
Keep items together and easy to access. In an emergency, searching for loose equipment costs time — and time is safety.
With the basics in place in the trunk and communication working on your phone, you reduce risks and gain peace of mind to handle everyday unexpected situations.
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