Travelling in a motorhome often takes you to remote places, where medical help can take a while to arrive. That's why having a basic grasp of first aid and a good first aid kit isn't being alarmist: it's being responsible. Knowing how to act calmly in the first few minutes of an incident can make all the difference. Here are some basics. (This is for information only and does NOT replace proper training or medical care; ideally, take a real first aid course.)
The first thing, always: the DRABC approach and emergency services
In any emergency, remember to keep it simple: check for danger (make the area safe, prevent further harm), call for help (dial your local emergency number — 112 works across the whole EU — and follow their instructions) and help the injured person according to your knowledge. Calling emergency services early and clearly describing the situation and your location is the most important thing.
Common situations on the road
- Wounds and cuts: clean with water or saline solution, apply pressure to stop the bleeding, cover with a dressing; if it's deep or won't stop bleeding, seek help.
- Burns (sun, cooking, fire): cool with lukewarm water (not ice-cold) for a good while, don't burst blisters, cover; serious or extensive burns need a doctor (see sun protection).
- Bumps and sprains: ice, rest, elevation; if there's deformity or the person can't put weight on it, seek medical attention.
- Stings and bites: clean, ice; watch out for allergic reactions (see stings).
- Heatstroke or dehydration: shade, cool down, hydrate; confusion or loss of consciousness is urgent (see heatwave).
- Choking: knowing the abdominal thrust manoeuvre can save a life (one more reason to take a course).
The kit and being prepared
- A good, complete, checked first aid kit (see health and first aid kit); make sure everyone knows where it is.
- Your medication and that of your travel companions (see managing medication).
- Useful details: your blood type, allergies, emergency contacts, and your European Health Insurance Card (or equivalent) when abroad (see health insurance card).
- Take a first aid course: the best advice; a few hours that can save a life.
In short
Knowing basic first aid and carrying a good kit is the responsibility of anyone travelling to remote places: remember the check-call-help approach, and know how to respond to wounds, burns, bumps and heatstroke. The step to take today: check your first aid kit, make sure everyone knows where it is, and keep emergency details to hand; and above all, consider taking a first aid course, which is what really prepares you. Pair it with health and first aid kit.