Don't Be Stranded Again
Keep Jumper Cables in Their Car — and Know How to Use Them
Dead batteries don’t send warnings — they just leave you stranded. Whether it’s from a forgotten dome light, an aging battery, or cold-weather drain, a car that won’t start can ruin your day. That’s why keeping jumper cables in your car is a must for every driver.
But having them isn’t enough — you also need to know how to use them safely. Jumper cables can bring a dead battery back to life in minutes, but improper use can cause sparks, damage electronics, or even result in injury.
Here’s why it matters:
Peace of mind: Whether you’re stuck in a parking lot or helping a stranger, jumper cables turn a crisis into a quick fix.
Saves time and money: Avoid waiting hours for roadside assistance or paying for a tow.
Good driver etiquette: You never know when you’ll need help — or when you’ll be able to offer it.
Pro Tip: Learn the correct jump-starting connection sequence (both cars turned off):
Red to dead battery (+)
Red to good battery (+)
Black to good battery (–)
Black to bare metal on the dead car (not the battery!)
Start the car with the good battery and wait at least 5 minutes. This will begin charging the dead battery. Then try to start the car. If it doesn’t start, wait a little more. Once the dead car starts, disconnect the cables in the reverse order and let the car run for at least 10 minutes to recharge.
Having jumper cables and knowing how to use them is a simple step that can save your day. It’s one of those small tools that every prepared driver should have — right next to the spare tire and flashlight.
Better yet, consider a jump starter battery pack. This way you can get the car started on your own without another vehicle.
Here are a few highly rated packs to consider: