Preparedness
Medical Preparedness: Beyond the Basic First Aid Kit
When preparing for medical emergencies away from home, many people stop at purchasing a first aid kit. While these kits serve as a good foundation, they often fall short of comprehensive preparedness.
To truly be ready, it’s crucial to start by taking a basic first aid course. These courses are generally affordable and sometimes even free through civic groups or employers. Typically lasting 6-8 hours, they are designed with the assumption that Emergency Medical Services (EMS) are readily accessible.
However, for those who anticipate being in more isolated or challenging environments, a wilderness or remote first aid course is highly recommended. These courses, usually spanning two days, cost around $200, though community colleges may offer more economical options. They are tailored to equip you with the skills needed to handle medical emergencies when EMS could be delayed by up to 8 hours.
Pet owners should also consider a basic first aid course for dogs and cats. Larger pet stores often provide in-person classes, and the Red Cross offers online options for both pet and human first aid.
At home, having a well-organized and stocked first aid kit is essential. Whether you purchase a pre-made kit or assemble one yourself, it should complement your usual home medical supplies. The contents should reflect your medical knowledge and skills.
For “away from home” emergencies, focus on assembling two kits: a compact one for daily carry in a purse, briefcase, or commuter bag, and a slightly larger one for your 72-hour survival bag, commonly known as a Bug Out Bag (BOB). This bag goes by various names, including 72-hour kit, battle box, grab bag, go bag, GOOD bag (get out of Dodge), INCH bag (I’m never coming home), personal emergency relocation kit (PERK), or quick run bag (QRB).
The compact first aid kit should fit in a small zippered pouch. The M2 BASICS 150 Piece First Aid Kit is a solid choice, though it may require some customization. Consider removing the CPR mask, as current guidelines prioritize chest compressions. Instead, add pain relief tablets, sting relief, and other medications such as antacids, antidiarrheals, or cold remedies. Use small ziplock bags to organize multiple doses, labeling them with contents, dates, and standard dosages, or opt for single-use foil packs. A small tube of triple antibiotic ointment is also a valuable addition. Aim to keep this kit under 8 ounces.
Creating your own compact kit offers the flexibility to tailor it to your specific needs and available space. Soft-sided pouches, like pencil cases or small cosmetic bags, are preferable due to their packing flexibility. This kit is intended for everyday carry, not for your survival bag.
Essential items for your compact kit include:
– Various sizes and types of band-aids
– Self-Adherent Cohesive Bandage, also known as Coban™ or Vet Wrap, which can be used to secure gauze pads, wrap sprains, or hold splints
The goal of these kits is to sustain you through the initial 72 hours of an emergency. It’s important not to skimp on quality; even a simple band-aid should be reliable.
For your 72-hour bag, start with a sturdy, lightweight container. Soft pouches are recommended for their packing efficiency. You can find empty marked first aid bags to ensure easy identification during emergencies.
In addition to the compact kit items, include:
– Travel-sized tubes or containers for medications, ensuring you have at least a dozen of each type
– Hemostatic agents like Quick Clot gauze for severe bleeding
– Feminine hygiene products, space permitting
Customize your first aid kit to match your skill level. A full trauma or EMT kit is only useful if you know how to use the items.
Lastly, consider keeping duplicate first aid kits in each vehicle you own. This ensures you have access to essential supplies even if your Go Bag isn’t with you during an emergency.
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