Emergency Equipment You Must Carry for Lebaran Mudik Travel

SOLO, KOMPAS.com - For those travelling home for Lebaran mudik by private car, ensuring the vehicle is in prime condition is mandatory before setting off. In addition to servicing and checking the main components, drivers should also prepare various emergency equipment inside the car. According to Marcell Kurniawan, Training Director at Real Driving Centre (RDC), emergency equipment plays an important role in maintaining safety and the smoothness of the journey, especially on long journeys. According to Marcell, car owners should ensure the jack and wheel wrench are always available and in good working condition. These two tools are essential because without a jack and a wheel wrench, the spare tyre cannot be used should a tyre go flat or burst during the journey. In addition, a warning triangle is also essential equipment to carry in the car. This device serves to warn other drivers when the vehicle has to stop on the shoulder, particularly on motorways, high-speed lanes, or under poor lighting. A torch or emergency light is also important. This tool is particularly useful when inspecting the vehicle at night or in locations with limited illumination. Marcell also suggests that drivers always carry jumper cables in the boot. This equipment is useful to address a failing or suddenly dead battery, a condition that occurs fairly often on long journeys. Marcell notes this equipment is often neglected by drivers, yet it is important to provide first aid if minor injuries occur before medical assistance arrives. Additionally, drivers are advised to carry work gloves as well as a cloth or clean rag. This simple equipment is useful when checking the engine, changing a tyre, or cleaning components without injuring the hands. He emphasised that the contents of the car’s emergency equipment should be tailored to the nature of the journey. If the route is quite long or passes through sparsely populated areas, the kit should be more comprehensive to reduce the risk of being stranded in the middle of the journey. By carrying essential items such as a jack, jumper cables, and a first aid kit, the risk of being stranded on the road can be minimised and the journey made safer and more comfortable.