If you find yourself in an unfortunate breakdown situation don’t forget to:

• Reduce distractions in the vehicle
  
• Stay calm and assess the situation and traffic conditions.
  
• Turn on your hazard lights.
  
• Slowly move as far off the roadway as possible—do not stop in a travel lane. Exiting the roadway via the next exit or pulling into a parking lot would be ideal.
  
• Use flares or reflectors if you are parked on the shoulder of the road.
  
• If possible and necessary, call for roadside assistance. If need be, call 911 for emergency assistance and report any circumstances that put you, your passengers, or your vehicle in danger.
  
• If you don’t have access to a phone, place a sign in your window asking passing motorists to call the police.
  
• If conditions allow, stay with your vehicle and wait for help to arrive.
  
• Do not walk along the roadway near traffic.
  
• Do not attempt to repair the vehicle yourself if it is in or near traffic lanes.

It is a good idea to always carry an emergency road kit with first aid supplies and other safety/survival items. In many cases this can make the differences between a brief trip interruption and an extended stay on the shoulder.

Many packaged kits with all the basics are available, but since you know your classic and how you use it better than anybody, you can probably customize a more complete kit for your own needs. Sure this may take up a bit more space in the trunk, but if your vehicle is prone to throwing belts or leaking fluids, it’s nice to be prepared. Here are some suggestions:

• Cellular Phone
• Compass or Global Positioning System (GPS) Device
• Jumper cables
• Flares
• Help Sign
• Assorted automotive fluids, parts, and repair items:
• Motor oil
• Antifreeze
• Transmission fluid
• Brake fluid
• Extra fuses
• Spare plugs
• Replacement belts and hoses
• Tire inflator
• Leak stop
• First aid kit - prepackaged kits work well.
• Bottled water
• Blanket
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• Assorted tools
• Screwdrivers (Slotted and Phillips in various sizes)
• Standard and locking pliers
• Adjustable wrenches
• Tire pressure gauge
• Lug wrench
• Hammer and pry bar
• Miscellaneous fastening devices
• Duct tape
• Muffler clamps
• Hose clamps
• Tie-down straps
• Rags

A quick search on the Internet under "emergency road kit" will produce endless sources for kits of all shapes and sizes. Using one of these and adding to it will give you the perfect kit for your situation.

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