While the first thoughts of your upcoming adventure
may be that of the amazing scenery or the interaction with nature at its
finest, it should be if am I prepared. Being prepared ahead of your trip will
help reduce worry and risk allowing you to enjoy nature. You can accomplish
this by having a proper first-aid kit on hand. What do I mean by “proper”, well
that simply means evaluating the nature and length of your adventure. Making
decisions objectively based on research and common sense. Asking yourself simple questions like: What
might happen if I don’t have this, is this item necessary or am I missing
something? Hikers are usually amazed by the number of redundant items they
carry out of habit.
By now you may be asking yourself, OK, but what to
take? This depends on the research you’ve done on the environment and length of
your trip. With that information I suggest looking at some, if not all the
following links (bottom of page) of first-aid items with descriptions. Also,
you will want to minimize weight and bulk, so only carry appropriately sized
quantities based on the length of your trip.
As a final tip, if you are regularly hiking or
spending lots of time in the wilderness, I suggest that you take a First-Aid
course. These courses will develop your skills in injury management, CPR and
other lifesaving situations.
Stay safe, be prepared and enjoy all that nature has
to offer fellow Lions.
Links for what to take in your First-Aid kit: