Pat's First Aid Kits

The contents of a first aid kit will differ depending on who is going and on what activities are happening. The following lists are what I generally carry, but they by no means supply the end-all-discussion sort of detail. As important as having proper first aid equimpment available is knowing how - and when - to use it. SEVERAL PEOPLE ON EVERY TRIP NEED TO KNOW FIRST AID.

If a large group is going into the woods, I like to leave a few things at the base camp (or trail head). Here's a list of what I keep there: base kit. Usually I only have these things on hand for large groups when I am responsible, like when I'm taking students out rather than when I'm with my friends.

I always carry a pretty good sized first aid kit when I'm in the backcountry. Every group should always have a group first aid kit.

In addition, everyone heading into wilds should be prepared to deal with minor incedents on their own. This eliminates the need to find the group first aid kit for minor injuries and it also places the cost of incidental supplies where they belong - i.e. I am not nickle-and-dimed to death! Having personal supplies will also free up many needed items that may otherwise be in short supply for the group (e.g. I have used all of my elastic bandages before). A simple personal first aid kit is easy and inexpensive to prepare.

In addition to the contents of the kit, here are some tips about the kit in general:
  1. Get a bag that opens up for easy access. Avoid the bulky, heavy types.
  2. Keep the kit away from moisture, direct sunlight and, most important of all, out of the reach of children.
  3. Store sensitive items like creams, ointments, and liquids in air-tights bags (Ziploc type).
  4. Wash and sterilise all hard items, like scissors and tweezers, after use and on a regular basis to maintain hygiene.
  5. Adhesive bandages with a fun theme or character are useful in taking a child’s attention away from the pain.
  6. Soft items like gauze and bandages are light, so more can be added to fill the gaps in your first aid kit. This prevents other items from shifting about. Sharp items could otherwise poke a hole in a tube of antiseptic or open up unused bandages.
  7. Check expiration dates on all medicines and throw away old and naturally stained bandages.
Take the time to prepare a good first aid kit, especially if you are the primary first aid provider on an outing. One place to get products is First Aid Products Online. There are many local places to buy them as well, including retail chains like Walgreens.