Do you spend a lot of time in your vehicle? According to the American Automobile Association Foundation for Traffic Safety, the average driver in the United States spends about 17,600 minutes in their car each year. That’s about 293 hours or just over 12 days. This study also showed that about 86% of American households own one car for every driver in the home, and most trips we take are solo trips.
Because we spend so much time in our vehicles, it’s important to be prepared for potential problems. You’re probably doing a great job keeping your car maintained with regular oil checks, wiper replacements, and tire rotations, but there is one preventative measure many people forget: A first aid kit. A first aid kit for your car should include a few different items than your typical kit at home.
Reasons a Specific Vehicle First Aid Kit Makes Sense
Injuries: Injuries can happen anywhere, and whether it’s someone in the car or a stranger, having some tools and supplies to help can save a life. From small injuries such as scraped knees at the playground to more extreme conditions from car accident, that first aid kit can keep someone safe until help arrives.
Motion sickness: Many people get sick in a vehicle, and the last thing you want is someone throwing up in the back seat while you’re driving 70 miles per hour. Carry some motion sickness remedies to prevent this possibility.
Allergies: If a passenger in your car has an allergic reaction, a first aid kit in can come to their aid. Those with known major allergies should have an EpiPen with them everywhere, and this includes in the vehicle. But even those with less-severe allergic reactions will be grateful for an antihistamine if they come in contact with a trigger.
Break downs: Consider your car breaks down somewhere off the beaten path. It may take a bit for help to arrive, possibly even keeping you stranded overnight. Blankets, matches, or a fire kit would be a welcome sight in these conditions. Safety equipment such as a road sign or bright-colored triangle so you’re seen on the road is also a good idea. Always keep some bottled water and some snacks, too.
Other Emergencies: Many emergencies can happen while you’re on the road, such as car accidents, fires, flash flooding, earthquakes, or other natural disasters. In extreme situations, emergency personnel will likely be involved, but that doesn’t mean you can’t be of help for more minor problems they can’t attend to. You can be a help to everyone involved with a well-stocked first aid kit.
First aid kits in a vehicle should have the usual bandages, tapes, gloves, scissors, antiseptic wipes, etc. But you’ll want to consider adding the above suggestions as well as anything else specific to you or your family’s needs. A great, ready-to-go option can be found here at Shield-Safety, but we’re always happy to help customize a first aid kit to fit your needs.