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Emergency Kit Checklist

18 itemsEstimated time: 30-45 minUpdated March 24, 2026

Build a complete truck emergency kit that covers breakdowns, medical emergencies, weather events, and roadside safety. Every item here could save your life, your cargo, or your schedule.

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DOT Required

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Medical

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Safety & Visibility

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Tools

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Survival

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Frequently Asked Questions

FMCSA 49 CFR 393.95 requires: one fire extinguisher (properly rated and charged), three reflective warning triangles (or six fusees/flares), and spare fuses (unless the vehicle uses circuit breakers). These are legal minimums — any experienced driver carries significantly more.
Do a full kit inventory every 3 months. Check fire extinguisher pressure, test flashlights and headlamps, replace expired first aid items and food, verify batteries are fresh, and restock anything that has been used. After using any item, replace it at your next fuel stop.
Keep frequently needed items (triangles, vest, flashlight, fire extinguisher) within arm's reach of the driver's seat or in an easily accessible exterior compartment. The fire extinguisher must be mounted securely within the cab. First aid kit goes in the cab. Tools and survival gear can go in side boxes.

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