By Janice Russell

Many of us spend some time thinking about what to do if a disaster strikes our home. It’s also a good idea to know what to do if a disaster strikes your workplace. But what if a natural disaster happens while you’re driving? Wherever we are, it’s important to be ready in case a catastrophe hits. This includes keeping your vehicle maintained, having the right equipment in your vehicle and having a comprehensive insurance policy that covers common damages during natural disasters. Here, The Christian Car Guy Radio Show offers several tips, just in case.

1. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained

Before you think about how to prepare your vehicle for a natural disaster, be sure your vehicle is maintained well enough to survive in case of disaster. This includes having a healthy car battery that won’t die on you when it matters most, keeping your vehicle’s fluids in check, making sure your tires are properly inflated and performing routine brake checks.

If your vehicle isn’t in good shape before a natural disaster hits, you may find it nonfunctional when it matters.

2. Know If Your Vehicle’s Insurance Covers Natural Disasters

Not all vehicle insurance plans cover natural disasters, so AutoInsurance.org notes that you want to be sure that yours includes comprehensive coverage. Remember that your insurance plan needs to be in place before any damages occur, so don’t wait to get coverage.

Comprehensive vehicle coverage is important so you’re protected from the most common types of natural disasters, plus any that your area might be prone to. For example, if you’re in a place that has frequent tornadoes, you’ll want your plan to include coverage for damages that are common in a tornado, such as protection from falling glass or debris.

When you’re choosing a specific insurance plan, try to balance your deductible costs with your premium costs. Generally, Policygenius explains that the higher your deductible, the lower your premiums will be, and vice-versa.

3. Be Prepared With the Right Equipment in Your Vehicle

Being prepared for a natural disaster while driving means keeping a disaster kit stocked with necessities in case of trouble. It should include items that are distinctly different from your average emergency car kit, which, according to government officials, would generally have jumper cables, a spare tire and a flashlight, among other things. While your emergency kit should have these necessary features, they’re not sufficient for a natural disaster.

You need a first aid kit, which should include adhesive bandages, saline solution and curved scissors that can cut away clothing. If you have children, keep extra items in case they’re riding with you, including child-safe pain relievers, Benadryl spray and sunscreen.

You also want medical tools in case anyone in your vehicle suffers serious wounds. If you need to perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, a CPR mask could be beneficial. Synthetic gloves will help you stay sanitary if you’re treating a wound. Keep some water and snacks in your vehicle in case you become stranded, plus emergency roadside markers so you can warn others of hazards.

A vital tool in any disaster kit is one you likely always have on you: your cell phone. Without a cell phone, it will be difficult to call for help or stay in contact with emergency authorities. It then makes sense to have a wireless car charger so you don’t run out of battery. Many portable jumper tools have large batteries that can charge your phone in addition to jumping your vehicle.

Natural disasters can be exceptionally unpredictable and will often take you by surprise with little to no warning. If you want to put yourself in the best position to deal with a natural disaster, it’s essential to be prepared before it happens.