Hurricane season is a stressful time for everyone because of all the preparation involved, from getting your house ready to create an emergency plan. Your Toyota should be a part of your planning, but it doesn’t have to be an added stress. We’ve come up with four tips for making sure your car is ready for the season — all of which can be done ahead of time so you won’t have to scramble at the last minute. Read on to discover our top tips and how they can help you stay sane.
Keep Your Toyota Maintained
One of the most important tips is to keep your car in tip-top shape. Before the season begins, bring in your car regularly to have the oil and tires checked for any issues, and make sure you get both your oil changed and tires rotated as needed.
As the season begins, bring it in for a more thorough inspection. Have your mechanic look at the AC, test the spare tires and belt, and check your fluid levels. That way, if you have to head out on an evacuation route, you’re less likely to run into any issues that could put you and your family in danger.
Stock Up on Emergency Gear
When hurricane season begins, start assembling an emergency bag in case you get stuck in inclement weather or have to evacuate. Some staples for vehicle purposes should include a few cans of Fix-A-Flat, antifreeze, road flares, jumper cables, and a gas canister. These should help you out of the most common roadside issues.
In addition to repair items, make sure you have at least one gallon of water per person, as well as a three-day supply of food like protein bars or granola. First aid supplies are also vital, as are extra clothing and some bedding — in case you’re on the road for a few days at a time. If at all possible, purchase an external phone charger or portable power bank to ensure you will have a means of communication.
Keep a Full Tank of Gas
As a storm approaches, you’ll often find long lines at gas stations and raised prices, which can be frustrating and take up valuable time. Make sure you keep a full tank of gas throughout the season so you’re ready to go at a moment’s notice and won’t get stuck waiting in long lines for expensive fuel.
Keep Your Toyota Safe
Don’t need to evacuate? It’s a good idea to park your Toyota somewhere safe, away from falling branches and other debris. Parking your car in a garage is ideal. Don’t park under a tree or power lines, both of which can cause serious issues. If all you have is a carport, make sure it’s sturdy; rusty or weak carports can collapse during storms and cause more damage.
If you can’t park in a garage, try to park near a building that can help block some of the storms. If you have to park it outside, make sure you take before and after pictures for insurance purposes, in case something does happen.
Hurricanes can be scary, but following these tips can help get you and your car prepared.
Image via Pixabay
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