We don’t usually do that, but carrying a first aid kit in the car can be a big change when it comes to quickly dealing with potential traffic accident victims or even ourselves in case of need.
Although Spanish regulations do not require you to carry a first aid kit in the car, it is very important to have a minimum kit in case of emergencies. In some specialty stores or even in large malls we can easily find first aid kits that are already prepared. However, below we list the products you should bring in the car kit:
- Antibiotic ointment
- Antihistamines
- Antiseptic gel to clean our hands without the need for water
- Antiseptic bandages to clean wounds
- Analgesics to relieve pain
- Burn ointment
- Cream for insect bites
- Band-aids and bandages of different sizes
- Sterile gauze pads for pressing wounds or applying ointments
- Scotch tape
- Gloves
- Wet wipes
- Thermometer
- Dynamo flashlight, so we make sure you never run out of battery
- Tweezers
- Scissors
- A thermal blanket
Many of these products have an expiration date so it is essential to check the products before embarking on any trip.
Remember that in case of witnessing an accident, the law requires you to provide assistance. We also want to remind you of the steps to follow in case of witnessing an accident with victims:
In the event that you are the first to arrive at the scene, the PAS protocol, Protect-Warn-Help, will be followed. You must stop the car in a safe place, put on the reflective vest and signal with the triangles. Evaluate the situation and call 112 giving as much information as possible: kilometer point where the accident occurred, number of injured and the situation in which they are, number of vehicles involved and a very detailed description of everything you see. In case the police, ambulances or fire brigade are already on the scene, you can continue driving unless they tell you otherwise.
When caring for the injured, remember that no more should be removed from the interior of the car or moved to avoid causing further injuries. In case of special situations such as fires, possible explosions or subsidence, we can omit this point. It is very important to keep victims aware at all times while waiting for medical services to arrive. The victim may not be given anything to eat or drink. Stay with the victim and try to reassure them. If necessary and as long as you know how to do them, you can proceed to do first aid.