When trekking into the great outdoors, most adventurers remember to pack an extra pair of socks, a dry layer of clothes, and most importantly, extra snacks.
But what’s being pulled out to make room for that extra candy bar is the one item that when needed is the most important.
Where is your first aid kit? I can tell you exactly where it is. It’s where mine has been placed on last-minute runs out the door. Your first aid kit is in a rushed pile on the floor next to the random items you pulled from your pack so you can fit the camera into it.
Now, I know capturing adventure memories is always fun. I do it myself. But weigh the options. Capturing the memory of the 2-inch deep laceration that won’t clot, or patching it up so you don’t get an infection or bleed out — that should not be a tough decision.
First aid kits can be pricey, but will save your life. I recommend making your own to suit your outdoor adventure needs. Here is a checklist of items that definitely should be in your kit or pack.
First aid checklist
•Latex gloves: At least 2 pairs plus a back up pair. Once a pair is torn, it must be replaced by a clean pair before treating an injury.
•Sterile dressings or gauze: Be sure to have enough to stop bleeding and then replace with clean dressings
•Antibiotic cleansing pads: Preferably, pads large enough to cover the palm of your hand.
•Antibiotic ointment: Carefully applied to speed up the healing process and ward off infection.
•Adhesive bandages: In varied sizes to cover small cuts to large gashes.
•Ace bandages: Not only to splint or wrap sprains, but also to hold bandages, as well a compression wrap.
•Nonstick sterile pads: Make sure they are non-stick. There is not much worse than a bandage that has become stuck to a wound, yet has to be removed.
•Eye wash and eye drops: For rinsing out any loose particles as well as reducing the itch or dryness caused by allergies.
•Ice packs: Work great to reduce swelling. Be sure to get the instant ice packs. Just a simple squeeze and shake to activate.
•Prescribed medication: If any is used daily or in cases of and emergency, such as inhalers or EpiPens.
Keep in mind that this is just a starting point for your kit. Consider the types of activities you will take part in and make adjustment when needed. Lastly, always remember to occasionally check the expiration dates on the items in your kit. Some items will expire and also dry out, making them useless when they are needed to work the most.
Girl vs. Wild,
Jacquelyn Farris