What first aid supplies are necessary for extreme weather emergencies?
Short Answer: When you are facing an extreme weather condition, such as a tornado or hurricane, the likelihood of you being injured by flying debris is extremely high. Therefore, when packing your first aid kit, make sure to include extra bandages, gauze, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and eyewash.
To know more about the essential first aid kit items for tornado and hurricane safety, you must learn about:
● The must-have emergency supplies for storm preparedness
● Waterproof and windproof first aid essentials
● How to store your first aid kit for extreme weather
● Safety tips for using a first aid kit during a natural disaster
Must-Have Emergency Supplies for Storm Preparedness
When storms strike, having the right emergency supplies with you can make a significant difference. The emergency supplies you will need are broadly categorised into medical and non-medical supplies, and they include the following:
Medical supplies
● Adhesive bandages and tapes
● Sterile gauze pads
● Casts or splints
● Antiseptic wipes
● Antibacterial ointment
● Saline solution
● Hand sanitiser
● Eye wash
● Pain-relief medication
● Safety pins
● Instant hot/cold packs
● Scissors and Tweezers
● Emergency Blankets
Non-medical supplies
● Supply of non-perishable food and water
● Battery-powered/hand-cranked radio or walkie-talkie
● Extra batteries
● Flashlight or headlamp
● Power banks
Waterproof and Windproof First Aid Essentials
One of the biggest challenges you will face during a storm is keeping your medical supplies dry and ready for use. When first aid supplies become wet or are exposed to moisture, they lose their sterility, and items such as bandages and gauze lose their structural integrity, failing you when you need them the most. That is why you need to plan and purchase waterproof and windproof first aid supplies.
When it comes to waterproofing and soundproofing your first aid essentials, you have the option of:
● Individually purchasing waterproof and windproof supplies, or
● Using a weatherproof cover or box to protect your first aid supplies
However, when it comes to storms and situations of extreme weather, you should not leave anything to chance when protecting your first aid essentials. As such, our recommendation is for you to consider a combination of both of the above approaches.
Try to purchase as many waterproof and windproof supplies as possible, and also protect your kit using a weatherproof cover or box. With this approach, even if water and moisture breach the outer covering, your supplies will still be safe and viable.
If you are looking for some of the best weatherproofing accessories for your first aid supplies, SURVIVAL has got you covered. The SURVIVAL Waterproof Dry Bag and the Waterproof Box are the perfect accessories to keep your first aid kits and medical supplies protected from the elements, no matter the weather.
How to Store Your First Aid Kit for Extreme Weather
The general rule of thumb for the storage of first aid kits and supplies is to keep them in cool and dry locations to minimise or prevent their exposure to heat, humidity, and direct sunlight.
Protecting against moisture and humidity
● Keep your medical supplies in the original packaging.
● Add silica gel packets to absorb excess moisture.
● Store the supplies in a waterproof container or dry bag.
● Regularly check on your kit and supplies, and replace items that have been affected by moisture and humidity.
● To protect against flooding, keep your kit in an elevated position that is still easily accessible.
Protecting against cold weather
● Keep your kit indoors or inside insulated storage where the temperature can be regulated.
● Use a thermal bag or protective sleeve.
● Replace items that have been frozen and thawed—the freezing and thawing can break down the active ingredients and impact sterility.
Safety Tips for Using a First Aid Kit During Natural Disasters
When disasters strike, being able to provide first aid to the injured amidst the chaos can certainly help calm things down. But providing first aid during a natural disaster is a lot more challenging than providing first aid on a normal day. Here are some essential safety tips that you need to take to heart to properly respond to the emergency while protecting yourself and others.
● Prioritise your personal safety- Before you think about providing first aid to others, you must safeguard your personal safety. Before you approach to provide first aid, secure the surrounding area by removing hazards, and make sure to use gloves and other protective items to prevent infections and cross-contamination.
● Do not let your supplies get wet- the last thing you need is for your medical supplies to get wet and contaminated. Always keep your kit inside a weatherproof bag or container and only take it out when needed.
● Illuminate the area before treatment- Natural disasters are often followed by blackouts, and it is extremely dangerous to carry out any medical procedure in low visibility. Therefore, before you administer first aid, illuminate the area as much as possible.
● Clean the surfaces before treatment- If a wound comes into contact with a dirty or wet surface, it can be infected and lead to serious complications. Therefore, always make sure to remove any debris and clean the surface using disinfectants.
● Keep a communication device nearby- If the injury is serious, you will need to get in touch with professionals as soon as possible. Make sure to keep in constant communication with rescuers and administer first aid to buy enough time.
● Stay calm- While the situation can be overwhelming, you must remain calm. When you remain calm, you are able to think clearly and act more efficiently. It is also important to calm and reassure the injured individual and provide emotional support.
● Prepare in advance- If you want to increase your chances of survival, you always need to plan ahead. Make sure your kits are well-stocked, properly labeled, and stored correctly. If you are diligent in your preparation, you have nothing to worry about when facing a natural disaster. 
Related Question
Q: What types of injuries are most common during tornadoes and hurricanes?
The injuries people suffer during tornadoes and hurricanes can range from minor cuts and bruises to sprains, bruises, lacerations, head injuries, and burns. Electrocutions and injuries connected to contaminated water are also common.
Conclusion
Tornadoes and hurricanes strike hard and fast, leaving a trail of destruction and injuries behind them. That is why you need to plan and gather all the medical and non-medical supplies you need to weather the storm. At the same time, you also need to protect your supplies from the elements, making sure that they don’t get damaged or contaminated when you need them the most.
If you are looking for the best first aid kits, supplies, and weatherproofing accessories, check out SURVIVAL. Our kits, designed by first aid professionals, are rugged, fully stocked, and clearly labeled, allowing you to remain calm, react fast, and take control of the situation. Don’t wait for the next storm to strike- plan ahead with SURVIVAL.