Planning for safety

A little planning can go a long way to ensuring your safety when driving alone.

If you don't belong to a rescue service ... Join one today! Being able to call for help is essential if a problem arises. Check whether your insurance company has an emergency assistance number.

Carry your breakdown emergency membership card with you and keep a list of emergency phone numbers in your vehicles glove box.

Does someone know where you are going? Gain peace of mind on long journeys by telling a friend where you are going and when you expect to arrive. You might want to arrange to make 'I'm OK' phone calls at intervals during your trip.

If you don't own a mobile phone, consider getting one for emergency use only.

Useful stuff to have in the car

	A map or Sat-Nav device
	The car's handbook
	A torch
	Tissues or a cloth
	Spare Spectacles
	Emergency cash (hidden securely)
	A few coins (for parking meters, tolls, etc)
	First aid kit
	Sunglasses
	Fire extinguisher

It is also an idea to have a pair of walking shoes in the boot and a plastic apron and gloves in case you need to change a wheel. In the winter, pack an emergency kit (see winter driving). Beware, keep spare shoes (and other stuff) away from the driver's foot-well because they could roll forward and get jammed under the brake pedal.

The next thing to consider is your route. Click the forward arrow to find out more ...