Still being written!
By Tony and Eric
Possibly the most important thing to have in your first aid kit is actually outside the kit, it’s you. Some sort of first aid training is always money in the bank, especially when something happens. Check with your local Red Cross chapter for possible training classes. CPR training should be tucked in there somewhere as well.
A basic first aid kit is an absolute must have. There is always room for Bandaids and some way to clean up cuts. Over the counter painkillers, saline to rinse an eye out is a good idea. An ace bandage, absorbent pads, tweezers, compact scissors, floss, hand sanitizers, butterfly bandages for open cuts, antibiotic ointment, burn gel, tape, thermometer, smelling salts, moleskin, antacid, something for constipation, diarehea medicine, small mirror, q-tips have all found there way into my first aid bag.
And my kit doesn’t take up a lot of space. It even fits in a backpack that is with me all the time so even on hikes or side trips I have it with me. Surprising how many people don’t carry even a basic kit.
Other important stuff to carry may include an Epi pen for someones allergies, over the counter allergy meds and extra prescription meds for any one who needs them. And don’t forget to include weather specific items, such as emergency blankets and fire starter if you are someplace cold and possibly extra water if you are someplace hot, sunscreen too.
I am a firm believer in being prepared, stuff only seems to happen when you are not ready for it.
Longer trips require more stuff to go with you as you are frequently a long way from help.
