What items should be in a wilderness first-aid kit?

Essential Items

A wilderness first-aid kit should contain items such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and blister care supplies. It should also include medications for allergic reactions, snake bites, and altitude sickness. Don’t forget to include a basic first-aid guide and a whistle for signaling help in emergency situations.

Personal Protective Equipment

In addition to the essential items, the kit should also include personal protective equipment such as gloves, a face mask, and eye protection. These items will help prevent the spread of diseases and protect the first aider from blood-borne pathogens. For example, include 2-3 pairs of gloves to account for potential contamination and to allow for frequent changing.

Specific Treatments and Supplies

The kit should also include specific supplies for treating common wilderness injuries such as sprains, strains, and broken bones. This includes items such as ACE wraps, cold packs, and splints. For example, include 2-3 ACE wraps to treat arm or leg injuries and a splint kit to immobilize broken bones.