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Moose Cove Women's Retreat

Infirmary

Cold Weather Camping and First Aid

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The following items should be considered when outfitting a basic first-aid kit:

Inspect the contents before every trip and make sure the tools are clean and supplies in good condition. Replace expired medicines and add items you wished you had brought on the last trip. Make sure the container is durable and waterproof and stow it in an accessible compartment of your backpack.

A camping first aid kit

So you’re going camping. You've packed the tent, sleeping bags and marshmallows. You've double-checked everything and, yes, the tent poles are packed. While hiking to your campsite an accident occurs - your friend is injured; bleeding. Quick, did anyone remember to pack the first aid kit? It might surprise you to know that many backpackers and campers indulge in their pastime without any sort of first aid equipment, but accidents can and do happen on a regular basis. With just a little time and money you can prepare yourself for most emergencies.

When preparing a first aid kit, you have two options – buy a pre-made one at a store or build your own. I recommend building your own, as you can personalize it to your own needs. If you remember spending a past trip with a badly upset stomach, then make sure it doesn’t happen again by including some Tums. Though personalizing your kit is recommended, do be sure to include the below list of essentials.

1.Flashlight (w/batteries) A small one that tucks easily into a corner will do.

2.Whistle (one for each camper) These serve two purposes: They are used to locate a camper if he/she gets separated and the noise also keep bears away when hiking in back country.

3.Tweezers. Used for removing slivers, to removing ticks

4.Bandage tape. Be sure you include a small pair of scissors to cut it with.

5.Band-aides. For general cuts and scrapes

6.Hydrocortisone crème for itches (if you haven’t already included it with your regular camping supplies)

7.Thermometer. You can pick up a cheap disposable one at any drug store

8.Burn ointment. Especially important if you plan on roasting marshmallows over an open fire

9.Matches or a lighter. You’ve probably packed some with your regular camping supplies but its still best to bring extra.

10.Anesthetic spray

11.Antiseptic. To wash out cuts and scrapes.

12.Adult Tylenol

13.A small first-aide handbook. You can get travel size. It provides instructions on what to do in most emergencies.

If you are bringing children along then also include the following:

1. Children’s Benadryl

2. Children’s Dimetapp or Sudafed

3. Children’s Motrin

With a just a little common sense and preparation you can be ready for most common emergencies.

 

Some More Resources:

A Camping First Aid Kit

Family Camping Check List

Camping Tips and Hints