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Tri County Staff

Be Prepared: 10 Essential Items for Roadside Emergencies


As the old saying goes, “It’s better to be safe than sorry.” When it comes to taking care of our health, this saying can make all the difference!


It’s no surprise that being prepared is vital when it comes to staying safe on the road. Whether you’re planning a more extended road trip or just driving around town, having a medical kit can be a real lifesaver in a roadside medical emergency.


But what should you include in it?


As your trusted partner in world-class care, we’ve put together a list of 10 essential medical supplies you should always have in the car—just in case.


#1. Bandages and Gauze



When treating minor cuts, scrapes, or even more severe lacerations, bandages and gauze are an absolute must-have in your car’s first aid kit!


Make sure to stock up on different sizes and shapes of bandages as well as plenty of rolls of sterile gauze so you'll be prepared for any situation!


#2. Tape

When it comes to adhesive care, the tape is indispensable! It keeps bandages in place and facilitates movement of the affected area.


Plus, if there's a need for splinting an injured limb or body part, then taping is necessary as well!


#3. Antiseptic Wipes

For those moments when a scraped knee needs cleaning, antiseptic wipes are an absolute must-have in any first aid kit!


Make sure to stock up on several packs of these convenient and hygienic cleansing cloths so you can have peace of mind knowing that minor cuts or abrasions will be taken care of quickly and effectively.


#4. Disposable Sterile Gloves



Disposable gloves are essential to protect yourself from any potential infections or germs!


These provide protection from infectious diseases and bacteria that could be present at the scene of an accident or incident. It is essential that these gloves stay sterile until they are ready to be used, so keep them sealed until they are needed, and remember to replace them after each use for maximum hygiene!


#5. Pain Relief Medications

Aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen—these painkillers should definitely be part of your roadside medical kit.


They can help alleviate pain from minor scratches, cuts, and bruises until medical attention can arrive on the scene. Please remember that it should not be given to anyone under the age of 18 without consulting or calling a physician first!


#6. Scissors & Tweezers



If clothing needs to be cut, scissors are the perfect tool, while tweezers offer a fast and safe way of removing splinters or any foreign objects from the skin prior to applying ointment or creating a bandage for it.


Keep some heavy-duty scissors with your other medical supplies so they’re ready when you need them most, such as cutting away clothing or bandages that are stuck to a wound or cut (yikes!). Invest in a good pair of tweezers, too, so they don’t break under pressure!


#7. Anti-Itch Cream

You never know when you'll run into an insect on your travels, so make sure to keep some hydrocortisone cream in your car kit essentials!


It's a great way to help relieve any itching or inflammation caused by bites, rashes, and other skin irritations. Plus, it will come in handy if anyone gets sunburnt, too—so don't forget to pack this cream before you head out!


#8. Instant Cold Pack

An instant cold pack offers quick relief from sprains and strains without needing to be stored in a refrigerator—all it requires is one simple squeeze!


This product will reduce swelling right away, providing you with fast healing assistance. An absolute lifesaver!


#9. Whistle & Emergency Blanket

A whistle is essential, especially if you find yourself alone and without a cell phone in reach - the loud sound will help draw the attention of passersby or rescue teams!


Additionally, an emergency blanket may be necessary during colder months when temperatures drop below zero degrees Celsius (or 32 degrees Fahrenheit). The blanket will work as insulation against harsher elements so that your body's warmth is preserved until aid arrives.


#10. Flashlight & Batteries



A flashlight with spare batteries is an absolute must-have if you ever find yourself stranded in the dark or when visibility reduces due to rainy/snowy weather conditions!


A dependable source of light will make it easier for you to inspect something closely, navigate at night, and help during unforeseen power outages!


So always keep a flashlight close by on your travels – You never know when it'll come in handy!


Wrapping It Up

When it comes to safety on the road, being prepared is key—and keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in your car can go a long way toward ensuring that you stay safe no matter what kind of situation arises.


Whether you're out on long drives through unfamiliar territory or simply running errands around town—it pays to be prepared for anything with an emergency medical kit in your car!


With these ten essential items packed away safely in your car’s trunk, you’ll rest easy knowing that no matter what comes your way, you’ll always have access to some basic supplies should anything go wrong during your travels.


Safe roads ahead!



Need urgent care? Tri-County Health and Wellness Center is here to help!

We know that you don’t want to wait long for treatment when you're sick or injured.

That’s why we offer walk-in appointments so you can see a doctor without having to schedule ahead of time. We’re open seven days a week to help you get the care you need when you need it!


You'll be seen quickly by one of our experienced providers who can get you on the road to recovery. Plus, we offer a variety of services beyond just urgent care, so you can get the care you need all in one place.



Contact us at 610-243-9785 for immediate medical assistance.


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