Nobody likes to think their car is going to break down on them. But a roadside emergency can happen at any time. Just how prepared are you in the event you one day find yourself stranded on the side of the road?

Here is a quick list of some very basic items every car owner should keep in their trunk to prepare for just such an emergency:

1. ‘Fix a Flat’ in a can. While not a permanent fix, a foam tire sealant may help you get your vehicle back on the road fast in the event of a minor puncture. Make sure you read the instructions and warnings on the container before using.

2. Jumper cables. Car batteries can take a beating, especially during the winter. Jumper cables are easy to use and most people are usually willing to help give you a jump.

3. Spare tire, car jack and lug wrench. It’s always a good idea to make sure you know how to change a flat tire. Most cars come with a jack and lug wrench for changing a tire.

4. Fire extinguisher. Cars these days have a lot of electrical parts and can catch fire by everything from a short circuit to an oil leak.

5. Hazard triangles or road flares. If you get stuck on the side of the road, it is very important to give approaching motorists as much warning as possible.

There are plenty of other things you may want to consider putting in your auto-survival kit. A first aid kit makes a lot of sense. So does a flashlight, a blanket and handyman tools such as a socket and wrench set, a screwdriver and pliers.

Last, but not least, make sure to keep a reasonable supply of nonperishable food and water in your vehicle. As a general rule, keep enough with you to sustain you and your passengers for one meal.

Being prepared with a basic survival kit can increase safety, reduce stress and help you get back on the road a lot faster.

Planning a getaway? Whether your destination is Disneyland or a secluded spot in the Rockies, there are some things you can do to keep your home safe while you’re away.

Don’t worry, none of them involve hiring a security guard or setting up booby traps of “Home Alone” proportions. Instead, these simple tips from the Insurance Information Institute will help make sure your home remains safe and sound without you in it.

Don’t announce your vacation plans on social media. You may be surprised at how many thieves use social media to figure out which homes they want to burglarize. Share your wonderful vacation with your friends after you return.

Make a break-in time consuming: Dead-bolt your doors and stick wooden dowels in your windows to slow burglars down.

Make a break-in noisy: Invest in a burglar alarm. The most effective systems ring at an outside service, which alerts police, fire and other emergency personnel.

Keep valuables out of sight: Don’t give would-be crooks a reason to break into your home. Keep cash, jewelry and other valuables out of sight. Consider investing in a safe for your valuables that is bolted to the floor or wall.

Keep your home well lit: Mount exterior lights out of reach in your yard or on your house. Put indoor lights on a timer so that they go on and off at appropriate times, making it look as if the house is occupied.

Arrange to have mail picked up or held by the post office: Stop newspaper deliveries and have your mail picked up by a trusted friend or neighbor.

If you’d like to read a bit more, here’s a tip sheet from the Insurance Information Institute.