Exploring Western Australia’s open roads and remote places is one of the great pleasures of travelling this State. But when you head further from towns and services, a little preparation goes a long way.
Most incidents on the road are minor – cuts, burns, sprains or dehydration. But when something more serious happens, having the right kit, knowing some basic first aid and having a simple plan can make all the difference while help is on the way.
If you’re planning to travel off-road or into remote areas, here are a few first aid essentials to think about before you go.
Start with a practical first aid kit
Your first aid kit should be able to handle everyday injuries as well as some of the risks that come with travelling in remote environments.
Useful items include:
Snake bite preparedness: Carry several heavy-duty elastic compression bandages suitable for treating snake or spider bites.
Wound care and burns: Saline tubes for flushing eyes or wounds, antiseptic wipes or cream, burn gel or burn dressings, and non-adherent dressings.
General first aid items: Strong scissors for cutting clothing, fine tweezers or splinter probes, disposable gloves and a thermal blanket.
Record keeping: A small notebook and pen can help you record times of injuries, symptoms or medications.
Before each trip, check your kit and replace any used or expired items. Think about where you’re travelling to – beach trips, hiking, or remote driving may require slightly different supplies.
Know essential first aid skills
If you’re the first person at the scene, basic first aid skills can make a real difference.
Some of the most useful include:
DRSABCD: This is the basic action plan used in first aid – Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR and Defibrillation.
Pressure immobilisation technique (PIT): This is the recommended treatment for snake and some spider bites. A firm compression bandage is applied over the bite site and along the limb, which is then immobilised.
Managing fractures and sprains: Simple splinting techniques can help stabilise injured limbs and reduce pain while waiting for medical help.
If you’re planning extended or remote travel, consider refreshing your first aid skills with a course before you leave.
Plan ahead before you travel
Preparation is just as important as the equipment you carry.
Before heading into remote areas:
• Tell someone your planned route and when you expect to return
• Check weather and local conditions
• Carry reliable communication, such as a satellite phone or personal locator beacon (PLB)
The AdventureSmart website encourages travellers to plan ahead, pack smart and tell someone where you’re going before heading outdoors. A few simple steps like these can make a big difference if something goes wrong.
They also recommend downloading the St John First Responder App, which includes first aid guides and allows you to call Triple Zero (000) while sharing your GPS location.
While waiting for help
If someone is injured and help is on the way:
Keep the casualty still: Unless there is immediate danger, avoid moving the person unnecessarily.
Be aware of the environment: Heat, sun exposure, insects or wildlife may create additional risks.
Manage shock: Keep the patient calm and warm, using a blanket if available.
Monitor hydration: If appropriate, offer small sips of water and monitor symptoms.
Travelling further afield?
If you’re heading well off the grid, it may be worth developing more advanced first aid capability.
Courses such as HLTAID013 Provide First Aid in Remote or Isolated Site or Critical Response Training teach people how to manage serious injuries when help may be hours away.
These programs cover the safe use of specialised equipment such as:
• purpose-designed tourniquets for severe bleeding
• emergency trauma bandages
• SAM splints for fractures.
If you think you need more advanced equipment, it’s important to be trained in how to use it safely.
Travelling in remote parts of Western Australia is an incredible experience. With the right preparation – a practical kit, some basic skills and a simple plan – you can help ensure your trip stays memorable for the right reasons.
In an emergency, always dial Triple Zero (000).
