Safety Tips for Using a Car Jack and Wrench on the Roadside

A flat tire or roadside breakdown can be stressfulespecially if youre alone, in a hurry, or on a busy road. In such moments, having a car jack and wrench is essential, but using them safely is even more important. Many car owners underestimate the risk involved in lifting a vehicle or changing a tire on the side of the road.

In this article, well share critical safety tips for using a car jack and wrench on the roadside, so you can protect yourself and your vehicle in an emergency.

Why Safety Matters When Using a Car Jack and Wrench

A car jack lifts your vehicle several inches off the ground. If it slips or collapses, the results can be dangerouseven fatal. The wrench, though simple, can also pose a risk if used improperly. That's why using these tools the right way isn't just a good habitit's a safety essential.

Top Safety Tips for Using a Car Jack and Wrench on the Roadside

? 1. Pull Over to a Safe, Flat Area

• Move your vehicle as far off the road as possibleideally to a wide shoulder or flat parking space.

• Avoid soft, sloped, or unstable surfaces like gravel or grass.

• Turn on hazard lights immediately to alert oncoming drivers.

? 2. Engage the Parking Brake

• Always engage the handbrake or parking brake before using the car jack and wrench.

• This prevents the vehicle from rolling while it's lifted.

? 3. Use Wheel Chocks or Blocks

• Place wheel chocks (or large stones/bricks) in front of and behind the tires that will remain on the ground.

• This adds extra stability to your parked vehicle and prevents movement.

? 4. Wear a Reflective Vest (If You Have One)

• If you're on a highway or roadside at night, visibility is vital.

• A reflective vest or jacket helps passing drivers see you from a distance.

? 5. Know Your Cars Jacking Points

• Always place the car jack under the designated jacking pointthis is usually just behind the front wheels or in front of the rear wheels, as outlined in your car manual.

• Never place the jack under the cars floorboard, bumper, or fuel tank area.

? 6. Loosen Lug Nuts Before Lifting

• Use your wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts before raising the vehicle.

• This ensures stability and makes it easier to remove the tire once lifted.

? 7. Dont Go Under the Car

• Never crawl underneath a car thats supported only by a jack.

• If you must work under the vehicle, always use jack standsthough this is not advisable on the roadside.

? 8. Lower the Car Carefully

• Once the spare tire is mounted, slowly lower the jack.

• Fully tighten the lug nuts only after the car is back on the ground.

? 9. Keep Tools and Yourself Away from Traffic

• Always work on the side facing away from oncoming vehicles.

• Lay tools like the jack and wrench within reach but away from the road.

? 10. Inspect Your Jack and Wrench Regularly

• Check that the car jack isnt rusted or damaged and that the wrench fits your lug nuts correctly.

• Keep them clean, well-oiled, and stored safely in your cars toolkit.

Bonus: What to Keep in Your Emergency Car Kit

Besides your car jack and wrench, its smart to carry:

• Reflective warning triangle

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Gloves and hand sanitizer

• Tire pressure gauge

• Spare tire (inflated)

• First aid kit

Conclusion

Having a car jack and wrench is only helpful if you know how to use them safely, especially on the roadside. These tools can get you back on the road in minutesbut one careless move can put you in danger. By following the safety tips above, you can confidently and securely manage flat tires or minor roadside issues.