Wilderness First Aid Kits

Some websites indicate that if you are properly trained and knowledgeable that you will not need to use wilderness first aid kits. This is something that I do not agree with at all. Regardless of the training and experience you have, accidents can and do happen. Even highly, safety conscious people can run into trouble at some point while out in the wilderness. 

At least one member of your party should have proper first aid training, but it would be much better if everyone took a first aid course before an outdoor adventure. If possible, take a course in outdoor or wilderness first aid.  In addition, everyone should know how to use his or her wilderness first aid kits. If you have first aid training, it is essential to renew it every few years. If you do not use, you will lose it! The retention for first aid knowledge is quite short.

Part of your first aid training must include CPR. This is especially important if your trip includes canoeing or kayaking. You must get any person who has experienced a near drowning situation to a doctor as soon as possible because complications can occur due to inhaling water. If your trip is a short one or simply a day trip, you can likely get away without full size wilderness first aid kits. However, a basic first aid kit is still recommended regardless of the length or duration of the trip.

Most people that do a lot of wilderness tripping never experience a situation where their wilderness first aid kits are required. A good word of advice is to consult your physician before your trip. He or she should be able to give you some tips on what you need to take or at the very least provide some information on who to contact for more information. Make sure you read the labels of any medication that you bring along. You may have someone that needs to bring their prescriptions along, and if they become incapacitated in any way, you may need to administer their medication. Do not give any medication to children or pregnant women without first consulting with a doctor.

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