As a professional truck driver, you spend long hours traveling the nation’s highways to deliver important loads. While truck driving provides independence and the freedom of seeing new places, it also comes with the risk of accidents and emergencies. Having an emergency supply kit and preparedness plan can provide important support during unexpected crisis events.
Begin by packing a sturdy bag or backpack with essential safety and survival items to keep in your truck at all times. Having necessary equipment and supplies readily available could save your life until help arrives. Useful items include:
- First-aid kit with bandages, gauze, medicines, etc.
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Battery-powered weather radio to receive emergency alerts
- Non-perishable snacks like protein bars, dried foods, nuts
- Extra chargers and batteries for electronic devices
- Fire extinguisher
- Warning triangles or road flares
- Rain poncho, warm blankets, and extra clothes
- Paper maps and atlases as backup navigation
In addition to the emergency kit, develop a thorough truck safety plan covering accident protocols, hazardous weather, health events, and other possible road incidents. Important information to outline includes:
- Emergency phone numbers you or first responders can call
- Specific directions to your location using mile markers
- Procedures to follow during accidents, injuries, severe storms, etc.
- Persons to contact such as your trucking dispatcher
- Information on local towing companies and repair shops
By taking proactive safety measures and continuing to follow federal trucking regulations, you can reduce preventable emergencies. Stay alert to weather and road conditions, give yourself plenty of stopping distance, and take rest breaks when fatigue sets in. But should the worst happen, having an emergency kit and preparedness plan can provide indispensable aid until you can get yourself and your truck safely off the road. Stay safe out there!