How does a first aid kit fit into emergency preparedness planning?
Short Answer: As the old saying goes, “preparation is better than a cure.” When disasters and emergencies strike, being prepared is more than stockpiling food and water; it's also about protecting your health and the health of those around you. To understand how a first aid kit fits into emergency preparedness planning, we need to first understand:
● The role of first aid in emergency preparedness
● The essential medical supplies for preppers
● How to build a self-sufficient first-aid kit, and
● Where you can buy the best prepper first aid kits.
The Role of First Aid in Emergency Preparedness
Here’s how first aid can fit into the bigger picture:
● Immediate response to injuries- In large-scale emergencies, the likelihood of people suffering injuries is quite high. Therefore, having a properly organized first aid response means that injuries can be treated on the spot, preventing further complications.
● Buying time until help arrives- In a crisis, health services may be delayed or unavailable for an extended period. Therefore, administering first aid to injuries can quite literally buy time for the injured until help arrives.
● Preventing injuries from worsening- Even a small cut or injury has the potential to fester and lead to life-threatening conditions. When first aid is administered, the wound can be cleaned, treated, and covered to prevent the wound from worsening.
● Supports self-reliance- Alongside food, water, and communication equipment, having access to a well-stocked first aid kit means that you are less reliant on outside help.
Essential Medical Supplies for Preppers
For preppers, a standard household first aid kit is a good starting point. However, to properly prepare for any potential crisis, you will need to include the following essential medical supplies as well (some of these items can be found in your standard first aid kit):
Basic wound care
● Adhesive bandages in multiple shapes and sizes
● Sterile gauze pads and rolls
● Antiseptic/alcohol wipes
● Medical tape and adhesive strips
● Safety pins
● Antibiotic creams or powders
Trauma and bleeding control
● Tourniquet
● Hemostatic dressing
● Elastic bandages
● Pressure bandages
Burn injury treatment
● Burn dressings
● Petroleum jelly or other burn ointments
● Instant/Reusable cold packs
Medication
● Pain relief medication (Tylenol, paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin)
● Antihistamines
● Anti-diarrheal medication
● Oral rehydration salts
● Any necessary prescription medication
Infection prevention and hygiene
● Hand sanitizers
● Surgical and CPR masks
● Disposable gloves
● Eye wash/saline solution
● Tweezers
● Scissors
Specialized survival items
● Emergency blanket
● Water purification tablets
● Snakebite first-aid kit
● Thermometer
● Thermal flask
● Durable and waterproof case or pouch
How to Build a Self-Sufficient First Aid Kit
While there are plenty of pre-filled first aid kits available for purchase, preppers might feel like they are not sufficient or do not cover everything for the crises they are preparing for in advance. In such a situation, the best course of action is to build your own first aid kit and take full advantage of the freedom you have to customize it according to your needs, environment, and potential risk. Here are some steps to follow when building your self-sufficient first aid kit:
● Start with the basics- No matter what, all first aid kits should have core items such as adhesive bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointments, tweezers, scissors, and gloves.
● Add trauma supplies- After you’ve secured the basic supplies, include items such as splints, triangular bandages, tourniquets, and hemostatic dressings that can help treat more serious trauma injuries.
● Include over-the-counter medication- Medication such as pain relievers, antihistamines, motion sickness medication, etc., can help relieve the pain, fever, and allergic reactions that may develop following the injury and first aid.
● Incorporate hygiene supplies- The use of hygiene supplies such as hand sanitizers and disposable gloves is important in helping prevent infections and cross-contamination.
● Keeping supplies in portable and durable storage- When storing medical supplies, choose a strong and portable case that can withstand rough conditions.
Where to Buy the Best Prepper First Aid Kits
As a prepper, if you’re looking for first aid kits and supplies that will never let you down, then look no further than SURVIVAL. We are a family-owned business that has been supplying premier first aid kits and supplies for families, offices, and adventurers since 1988. We are more than just a provider of emergency solutions: we are your partner in safety and preparation.
Related Questions
Q: Can I buy ready-made prepper first aid kits, or should I build my own?
The answer depends on your preference. While ready-made kits can save time and energy, building your own gives the option of customisation. If you want to get the best of both worlds, you can start with a ready-made kit base and add on specialised supplies.
Q: How many kits should a prepper have?
Ideally, a prepper should have multiple kits, all stored properly in different locations and readily accessible at a moment’s notice.
Conclusion
As a prepper, first aid should be at the core of any emergency preparedness plan. It can quite literally buy time for an injured person by immediately treating the wound and preventing the condition from worsening until proper medical attention can be given by professionals.
That is why SURVIVAL first aid kits are the perfect kit for any prepper. Our mission is to make safety simple, powerful, and accessible, and our first aid kits are designed to help you react faster and stay calm in any emergency. No matter what emergency you are prepping for, you can take it a bit easier knowing that SURVIVAL has got your back.