Even if you don't have any first aid training yourself it is always a good idea to keep a basic first aid kit in your car. Most people know how to deal with minor cuts and scrapes, but even if that's all you can you can cope with, there may be someone at the scene of an accident that has first aid experience and can make better use of your kit.
First aid training
Basic first aid training can make a big difference at the scene of an accident. There are many first aid courses available for the novice who simply wants to know a little more about what to do (and what not to do) in an accident injury situation.
Many employers encourage their staff to attend such courses as it helps them fulfil their Health and Safety obligations by having a number of registered First Aiders on their staff. If you approach the personnel department at your workplace they may be able to arrange a basic training course for you.
Even if you organise some training for yourself it is always a good skill to have, and it can be advantageous on your personal CV.
Basic accident first aid kit
Many car accessory stores offer complete 'off-the-shelf' first aid kits. These come in various shapes and sizes, any one of them is probably better than nothing, but obviously the larger the kit the more useful it is likely to be in a real accident situation. A genuinely useful accident First Aid kit should contain most of the items below.
First Aid advice booklet
Waterproof plasters of various sizes
At least a couple of pairs of sterile plastic gloves
A torch with fresh batteries (if you don't have one already)
Large and small bandages
Safety pins
Hypoallergenic surgical tape
Cotton wool and cotton buds
Scissors and tweezers
Burn treatment cream
Aspirin or paracetamol tablets
Emergency blanket
Eye pads and eye wash
Antiseptic cream
A large bottle of still drinking water
If you have been involved in a car accident and would like further advice, please give us a call us on 0845 6768898 or complete our online claim form and one of our experienced advisors will be happy to help.