Motorcycle accidents happen when you least expect it. Are you prepared? Do you carry a first-aid kit? You should.
Carrying a store bought first-aid is good idea, but sometimes motorcyclists need more. There are motorcycle-specific first-aid kits available; however, a first-aid kit can be made at home.
Even more important than carrying a first-aid kit is knowing how to use it and what to do in an emergency. Taking a motorcycle trauma class is the best way to be prepared in this situation. Accident Scene Management, Inc. (ASMI) offers classes with certified instructors to train motorcyclists on helmet removal, jaw thrust rescue breathing, movement and how to properly use the items in a first-aid kit.
Here are the top 10 items to carry in a first-aid kit:
1. Non-latex or nitrile (preferred) gloves (multiple pairs)
2. Trauma shears or scissors strong enough to cut through leather
3. Breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
4. Sterile gauze pads (assorted sizes)
5. Compression bandages (5 x 9 inches)
6. Band-Aids (assorted sizes)
7. Medical tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
8. Roller bandages
9. Hand sanitizer
10. Something to write on and with
If you have more room, the following items should be added:
11. Flashlight or head lamp and or/glow sticks
12. Saline solution
13. Antiseptic wipes
14. Emergency foil blanket
15. Antibiotic ointment
16. Aspirin
17. Non-aspirin
18. Hydrocortisone ointment
19. Burn gel
20. Tweezers
21. Instant cold compress
22. Splint
23. First aid instruction booklet
24. Splint (such as a wood tongue blade)
25. Powdered clotting agents
26. Glow sticks
27. Glucose/candy
28. Benadryl or other antihistamine
29. Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
30. Tourniquet
Remember: first-aid and trauma kits need to be checked and updated regularly. Make sure to check expiration dates and batteries; replace any used or expired contents.
Motorcycles don't allow for a lot of carrying room. Decide what is important to you, how much you can fit, how long your trip is, how many people are riding in your group, etc. If you are riding in a group, maybe several riders could split first-aid items so everyone is prepared.
Do you have any suggestions for what to pack in a first-aid kit?
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