Rescue Diaries
Riding on the Safe Side
Rescue Diaries
Riding on the Safe Side
"It was a horrible situation and has prompted me, and other riders to be more prepared."
Stewart was enjoying a motorcycle ride with his friends through rural Victoria when two motorcyclists collided right in front of him. One of the riders was badly injured with a concussion and an amputated toe.
All Stewart had on him was a small pouch filled with some saline and Band-Aids from home. Luckily, with his experience as a nurse, he was able to stabilise the rider until help arrived. This was the moment he knew he needed a reliable first aid kit and came across the Adventurer Rescue Swag – a kit he could strap to his motorcycle seat.
For Stewart, the Adventurer Rescue Swag keeps him prepared for any vehicle or motorcycle accident he might encounter during his rides. The three pre-stocked modules have everything you need to tackle minor accidents, sprains, snake bites, burns and even major injuries.
“It was a horrible situation and has prompted me, and other riders to be more prepared,” Stewart said. “Everywhere we ride has limited reception and the closest town may or may not have a medical centre.
“Everyone should travel with a first aid kit because it’s good to be on the safe side.”
Stewart was given the Rescue Swag as a Christmas gift last year and highly rates it to other riders. “I love the fact that I could easily tell someone in an emergency to grab the yellow bag on my bike and they would know exactly what to do,” Stewart said.
“Rescue Swag is easily visible, accessible, and has the supplies you need to get you out of strife.”
“It’s great to know the kit supports the RFDS.”
His kit has already been put to good use during challenging rides and weekends away.
“I used it two months ago on a wet ride where part of the roads had been washed away and the leaves on the bitumen were making it very slippery,” Stewart said.
“When we pulled over some of the riders came off their bikes.
“There were a few grazes and cuts that needed immediate first aid so it was great to have my Rescue Swag on hand so that I could patch them up quickly before we arrived at our accommodation.”
When Stewart discovered that Rescue Swag was owned by the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) he knew the money was well spent.
“My Dad had a heart blockage when he was living in Emerald and the RFDS flew him for surgery,” Stewart said.
“It’s great to know the kit supports this organisation.”
All Rescue Swag profits go directly to RFDS to provide aeromedical and primary health care services to people who live, work and travel across Australia.
Key lessons from Stewart's experience
Daniel’s brush with danger offers invaluable insights for anyone planning to spend time in rural or remote areas. He has kindly provided us with five tips and lessons on safety that he has been reminded of following this incident.
1. Always carry a first aid kit
Whether you’re hiking, driving, or simply exploring a friend’s property, having a comprehensive first aid kit on hand can be the difference between life and death.
Daniel’s Adventure Rescue Swag, complete with the Snake Bite Module, was instrumental in managing his injury and preventing a more severe outcome.
2. Know how to use it
Keep your first aid skills sharp and know how to use your kit. Emergencies are unpredictable, but staying prepared by keeping your training up-to-date and familiarising yourself with the tools inside your kit can make all the difference.
Daniel’s quick response to the snake bite was a result of both his preparedness and his knowledge of how to use critical items, like compression bandages.
3. Be mindful of your environment
Daniel admits that he made a mistake by wearing open toed shoes in an area known for its snake population. Proper footwear and protective clothing are crucial in snake-prone environments.
Avoid complacency—whether you’re bushwalking, camping, or exploring, always assess the terrain and dress appropriately.
4. Stay calm under pressure
In high-stakes situations, panic can be deadly. Daniel and his friend remained calm, drawing on their first aid training and methodically working through the steps to apply the compression bandage.
Staying focused and composed can help you think clearly and make better decisions when every second counts.
5. Carry a satellite phone or a PLB1
In especially remote areas, reliable communication can be a lifesaver. Daniel was fortunate to be close enough to a hospital, but if you’re heading into areas where help isn’t nearby, carrying a satellite phone or a PLB1 (Personal Locator Beacon) ensures that you can contact emergency services, no matter how far off the grid you are.
