More lifesaving kits for Plymouth taxis

More than 100 cabs equipped

A new initiative to save lives in Plymouth has seen 160 black cabs equipped with lifesaving bleed kits. 

Global defence company Babcock donated £10,000 to RAPAID, a charity dedicated to providing emergency bandages to the public, to help them expand the scheme. 

The group has already installed over 5,000 kits in cabs across five other UK cities.

The idea is simple: these kits are always on the move, available to anyone in need. With just a few minutes to bleed out, the military-grade bandages can stop a catastrophic bleed in seconds. It's like having a defibrillator for injuries, providing vital first aid until emergency services arrive.

Each kit contains sealed emergency bandages, a pressure pad, a tourniquet, surgical gloves, and easy-to-follow instructions. RAPAID installs the kits and applies a distinctive sticker to the cabs, making them easily identifiable.

Alex Chivers, co-founder of RAPAID, explained, "Cab drivers don't need to use the kits themselves. Their vehicles are simply a public resource for anyone in need. This is vital for accidents, terror attacks, stabbings, or falls."

"This initiative will make the city safer and more welcoming for everyone. And we appreciate the support of the fantastic cabbies who have embraced this initiative."