Types of First-Aid Kits
Putting together a first aid kit is a process that often involves modifications depending on many considerations. Priortize safety. Think about your first-aid risks before each trip and adjust your first-aid strategy based on:
- Activity and environment
- Duration and distance
- Group composition
- Pre-existing medical needs
- Weight
How do these considerations affect what goes in your first-aid kit? Activity and environment matters because if you are doing high velocity activities such as mountain biking or skiing, there will be a greater need to carry items such as a Tactical tourniquet or an emergency dental repair kit. There is less need for such items if you are snowshoeing. Likewise, there is little to no need for insect repellent or mosquito nettingin winter or snake bite concerns. Duration and distance effects how often you may need to change bandages (number of bandage changes you need to pack). Group composition matters because if there are children or women, this can affect medications and issues such as unexplained abdominal pain. Pre-existing medical needs, such as allergies to bee stings (Anaphylaxis risk) or diabetes (Hypoglycemia risk) involve packing prescription items such as an EpiPen and Insulin.