A "roll your own" recipe for a first aid kit

[Radio]

Once apon a time I had a web site, part of which was devoted to backpacking. Since then the web site has come down, and my knees have about given up the sport. Nice long day hikes are the way to go now.

I have cut & pasted the part about making your own first aid kit here. I found the ready made variety too expesive, too heavy for backpacking and didn't contain what I thought I needed.

Now remember this kit is for the backpacker and so is meant to be light weight. Add to this list as you see fit. Boondockers and day hikers will find this kit about right. Mine travels in a zip lock bag inside a nylon draw string pouch. A Tupperware or similar container would work well for kits that never left the RV.

NOTE: You will want to adjust the contents of your kit to your personal needs. For example a diabetic or people allergic to bee sting (who, of course, always seem to get stung) will want to adjust their kit to meet their specific needs. Here is a starting point. Several people working together, sharing the contents of retail packages (like a box of 30 band-aids) and perhaps with the aid of a doctor or paramedic, can assemble an adequate low cost emergency first aid kit.

[] 1 roll of breathable bandage adhesive tape. Discard the outer cover to save weight.

[] 1 roll "Cling" 3 inch gauze bandage

[] 2 or 3 3x3 inch gauze compresses

[] 12 band-aids

[] small tube antibiotic ointment (for cuts and burns, check the exp. date now and then)

[] 2 or 3 alcohol 'prep' towellettes

[] 6 to 10 headache / pain pills (ibuprofen is good for inflammation, also)

[] mild laxative squares or pills

[] motion sickness pills (they stop vomiting)

[] 6 antihistamine tables

[] 4 or 5 butterfly closures

[] 3 or 4 needles (for dislodging thorns, breaking blisters)

[] mole skin or other blister kit

[] snake bite kit (the kind with suction cups)

[] tick removal tool

[] INSTRUCTION SHEET (an emergency situation is not the time to be learning new skills. Outfitters and the Red Cross will have condensed information sheets. Dig it out and read the thing now and then.)

For extended hikes away from civilization, see if your doctor or pharmacist will supply you with the following medicines. Ask to be educated in their use. Write down instructions and descriptions of what the pill looks like and keep in your kit. I store all my pills in a 35mm film can with a cotton ball to keep them from grinding into a "cure all fine powder."

[] broad-spectrum antibiotic tablets

[] pills for major pain (sprains, broken bones)

[] pills for diarrhea. In the wilderness this condition could dehydrate and kill you. Get something that works fast.

The most important thing is to know exactly what you are doing. The outfitter shops are full of good wilderness first aid books. The Red Cross offers classes in first aid, often for free, and often begging people to go. Get educated before you go.

Remember: A Wilderness Emergency is NOT the Time to Learn New Skills. Educate Yourself.

And with some common sense and good luck, you might not need any of this.

Radio

[welshman599]

A great post Radio! Thanks.

[MRimmer]

Wow another great post!!!


Thanks, Mike

[aintgotnun]

what do you think about placing this in the "Tips and Tricks" section??

[MRimmer]

works for me and stick the thread


you got this one?

[aintgotnun]

By the power vested in me by the authorities of FRF and........

Well it's done.

BTW, I must have moved it whilst you were posting Mr. Rimmer


greg

[MRimmer]

Thanks and Mr Rimmer is my dad


I am simply Mike

[aintgotnun]

Originally Posted by MRimmer

Thanks and Mr Rimmer is my dad


I am simply Mike

Well then simply Mike, give your father my regards. And accept my apoligies.

I usually tell folks that call me Mr. John that only my kids friends call me that. If they don't want to call me Greg, then Sir will do quite nicely.

[budfans]

the only things not listed is an ace bandage , popsickle sticks , and a botle of whisky

[J.R.]

Good info! Thanks JR