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New Rules Enhance Vehicle First Aid Kits: More Masks, New Beacon

Stay safe on the road: New rules mean more medical masks and a new warning beacon in your vehicle's first aid kit.

In this image, I can see the cars on the road. I can see four people standing. These are the...
In this image, I can see the cars on the road. I can see four people standing. These are the buildings with the windows. I can see the trees. I think these are the emergency warning triangle.

New Rules Enhance Vehicle First Aid Kits: More Masks, New Beacon

New rules for first watch kits in vehicles have been announced. These changes aim to enhance safety and compliance with updated standards. Key updates include the number of medical masks and the introduction of a new warning beacon.

The DIN standard 13164, updated in 2022, mandates two medical masks in first watch kits. Previously, only one dressing was required, along with a reduction in the number of triangular bandages. These changes ensure better preparedness for medical emergencies.

Sterile products, such as gauze or compresses, have expiration dates. It's crucial to replace them regularly to maintain the kit's effectiveness. In Germany, an incomplete or expired first watch kit can result in a warning fine of up to ten euros.

High-visibility vests are now required to meet the DIN EN 20471 standard. This ensures they provide sufficient luminosity and reflective stripes for better visibility. While one vest per vehicle is legally required, experts recommend keeping one for each seat.

The V16 warning beacon is set to become mandatory in Germany from 2026, replacing the warning triangle. However, it's not a replacement for the warning triangle in Germany yet, but it will be in Spain by 2026. It's a useful addition, making the car visible from a distance. In the meantime, a warning triangle complying with the ECE R27 standard is mandatory for early warning of other road users.

Drivers are advised to update their first watch kits to comply with the new standards. This includes having two medical masks, ensuring sterile products are not expired, and acquiring high-visibility vests meeting the DIN EN 20471 standard. While the V16 warning beacon is not yet mandatory in Germany, it's wise to consider it for added safety. Regularly checking and replenishing first watch kits will help ensure they're ready when needed.

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