Shorter days and slick roads make winter breakdowns tougher. This UK guide lists the must-have car first-aid items, smart storage tips, and simple steps for minor injuries at the roadside.
Shorter days, wet roads and freezing mornings make winter the riskiest time to be stuck at the roadside. A compact, well-packed first-aid kit helps you deal with minor injuries safely until you’re home or a professional arrives. This guide explains exactly what to keep in your car from November to March, where to store it for quick access, and how to use it in common winter situations. It’s written for UK drivers and pairs naturally with compact travel kits and larger family car kits.
These items are not strictly first aid but make a big difference if you have to wait at the roadside in the dark or cold.
Keep the kit in the glovebox or a front door pocket so you can reach it from the driver’s seat. Avoid burying it under luggage in the boot. If you store liquids like de-icer in the boot, keep the first-aid kit in the cabin where temperatures are more stable.
Put gloves on top, then the foil blanket, then dressings and tape underneath. Group sterile items in a clear pouch so sizes are easy to see. Check expiry dates every 6 to 12 months and restock immediately after any use. Replace dressings that are past expiry or if the packaging looks damaged or damp.
Minor cuts and grazes: Put on gloves. Clean around the wound. Apply a low-adherent dressing or a plaster and secure with tape. Seek medical advice for deep, dirty or persistent wounds.
Nosebleeds: Sit down and lean forward slightly. Pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes and breathe through the mouth. If bleeding is heavy or continues, seek medical help.
Small burns and scalds: Cool the area under cool running water for up to 20 minutes. Remove jewellery and tight items near the burn. Cover with a sterile non-adherent dressing. Do not apply oils or creams to a fresh burn.
Sprains and strains: Rest the area and elevate if comfortable. Apply a cold compress wrapped in cloth for short intervals. If pain is severe, there is deformity or you cannot bear weight, seek medical help.
Compact travel kit: Ideal for daily solo commuting. It focuses on plasters, wipes, gloves and a foil blanket and fits the glovebox.
Car and family kit: Adds extra dressings, a triangular bandage and more gloves. Best for family trips or longer drives.
Refill packs: Keep one at home so you can replace used items quickly instead of carrying duplicates.
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