*** Hikers First Aid Kit ***

(Jeff McCann , Tue 17th June 1997)
j.mccann@worldnet.att.net

A few days ago, somebody asked for suggestions on the contents of a
first aid kit for backpacking.
I frequently hike solo, off trail for a week or so. Sometimes, I take
small groups of kids backpacking. I am a paramedic, I teach first aid,
and I have been backpacking for over 20 years. I'm well prepared, but
very weight conscious, so I try not to go overboard.
        Here's what I carry:

1.      Case:  OR Hiker model
2.      Cederroth bloodstopper, similar to a battle dressing, large
thick pad with straps attached, in compact wrapper.
3.      4x4 gauze sponges, 5
4.      3x8 non adhering dressing
5.      1/4 and 1/2" steri-strips, 12 each 
6.      Molefoam, moleskin, and that moist blue stuff for blisters
7.      Cloth "Coach's" tape
8.      Neosporin ointment, individual foil packets, 6
9.      Alcohol swabs, 2
10.     Needle
11.     Betadine, 1 oz
12.     Benzoin Compound, 1/4 oz.
13.     Famotidine-acid blocker
14.     Loperamide-anti-diarrheal
15.     Aspirin
16.     Demoral
17.     NSAID
18.     My field repair kit
19.     a spare mini-bic lighter
20.     a tiny little compass

I also use the scissors on my leatherman PST or Micra, often carry a
space blanket, and have duct tape in my repair kit. I would use my
ground pad for splints C-collars, etc, as needed. I also would use
dental floss for suturing, if it came to that.

        As for my repair kit:
1.      very large pill bottle 
2.      duct tape wrapped around bottle
3.      tiny sewing awl and heavy duty thread/dental floss
4.      regular needles and thread
5.      few buttons and safety pins
6.      nylon fabric repair tape

I hope this helps, and I invite comments, suggestions, and questions.

Jeff
-- 
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Jeffrey Allen McCann, P.A.  Attorney at Law
 j.mccann@worldnet.att.net  (904) 477-0820
  P.O. Box 10833 Pensacola, FL 32524-0833
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DISCLAIMER/WARNING:
This message is NOT legal advice and is not confidential.
Legal concepts mentioned probably don't apply to your jurisdiction or
circumstances, so consult your attorney for specific legal advice.  
Opinions expressed are mine alone, and probably don't reflect the views
of my clients or employers.

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