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ALERTDIVER.COM
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STOCK YOUR FIRST-AID KIT
TRAVEL SMARTER
A
s outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers
and globetrotters, divers participate
in activities that can potentially cause
injuries. Even diving itself involves
its fair share of bumps, bruises, stings and
scrapes. Remembering to stock and carry
your first-aid kit is an important step in being
prepared. Customizing and maintaining your kit
will protect you further. Make sure you’re ready
for just about anything.
Start with the Essentials
Commercially available first-aid kits for
divers will provide you with a reasonable
array of supplies that can be upgraded or
augmented according to your circumstances
(see
DAN.org/store ). These kits are typically
well organized and easy to use.
If you choose to put together your own kit, start with the
following essentials:
Basics
Dressings and Bandages Accessories
Medications
hypoallergenic gloves
CPR barrier
tweezers
safety pins
scissors
soap
first-aid guide
adhesive bandages
gauze pads and rolls
triangular bandages
elastic bandages
medical tape
vinegar
sterile saline solution
irrigation syringe
hot and cold packs
aspirin
acetaminophen
ibuprofen
diphenhydramine
hydrocortisone cream
antibiotic ointment
dimenhydrinate
loperamide
antacid
Customize for Your Needs
The list above is only a foundation. If you know you’ll be hiking
or walking somewhere with uneven terrain, include one or two
lightweight, reusable splints. If you will be traveling with someone
who has a history of severe allergic reactions, ask your physician
about getting a prescription for an EpiPen. You might also ask
your doctor to prescribe other prescription medications he or she
thinks you may need. Consider the circumstances and conditions
of your upcoming activities, keep track of items you wished you
had packed on previous trips, and stock up. If you have questions,
call DAN’s medical services staff at
+1-919-684-2948
.
Maintain Your Kit
Remember that the contents of your kit may be perishable and must
be replaced periodically. Inspect your kit before every trip and at
least once per year. Replace all expired medications. Evaluate all
packaging for discoloration, signs of disintegration or other damage,
moisture, rust, residue or mildew. Ensure penlights, otoscopes and
flashlights have new batteries, and inspect scissors or shears for
rust, corrosion or other defects. If you have any doubt about whether
an item is in working order, err on the side of caution and replace it.
For more information about health and diving, visit
DAN.org/Health
.
AD
STEPHEN FRINK