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Checklist for a Forest First Aid Kit

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Forest First Aid Kit
Contents

Having a Forest first aid kit when you are hiking or camping is essential. If you end up in an unexpected injury or accident, you will be glad that you brought a complete kit for the outdoors.

Imagine this. You are hiking in a forest area, you stumbled upon some rocks that cause you or others to trip and fall. A cut in the knee or some bruises might not seem a big deal at first, but when you add in some dirt that causes infection, things change.

Or you might encounter bees or native stinging plants along an Australian trail. A mild sting or rash can usually be eased with first aid supplies.

A severe allergic reaction is different. If someone has trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or feels faint, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they carry one and call emergency services (000 in Australia, 911 in the U.S.) right away.

Forest First Aid Kit

Upon setting our foot at the campground, we tend to get excited and that burst in emotion makes us somewhat prone to those little mishaps, like scrapes and minor cuts. If you are one of the many Australians, or the 5.5 million visitors who like hiking or bushwalking, you will want to make sure to bring forest first aid essentials. Be prepared for unexpected accidents with a well-stocked first aid kit.

Forest First Aid Kit Includes

If you are looking for a complete checklist for a forest first aid kit, you found it.

According to The First Aid Course Melbourne, Forest first aid kits include useful first aid items that are proven invaluable to both individuals, campers, as well as to forestry workers and other professionals that work in the great outdoors.

Adhesive bandages

Stock adhesive bandages in different sizes in your kit. They cover small wounds and help keep out dirt and bacteria while the skin heals.

Antibiotic ointment

A topical antibiotic ointment can help prevent infection in small cuts, scrapes, or burns. It is available without a prescription. Clean the wound first, and don't use it on large areas, deep wounds, or serious burns; those need medical care.

Antiseptic wipes

Antiseptic wipes are a single used item primarily used for disinfecting wounds or cleaning the hands. Each wipe is individually packed, making it easy to put even in small first aid kits.

Aspirin

Aspirin can be useful in an adult kit. If someone has new or unexplained chest pain or other signs of a heart attack, call emergency services first.

According to MedlinePlus, many experts recommend chewing an aspirin after calling for help, but only if a doctor or the emergency operator tells you to, and only if the person is not allergic to aspirin or at risk from taking it. Never give aspirin to children.

Bandages

Bandages provide compression, which makes them very useful after an injury. They can support a sprained ankle, knee or elbow and hold a dressing against a limb.

There are different types of bandages, but for camping or hiking, pack roll bandages, including elastic and heavy compression ones.

Blanket

Hiking or camping during the colder season can put you at risk of hypothermia. A lightweight emergency (space) blanket helps keep body heat in three ways:

  • It reflects body heat back toward you
  • The airtight foil reduces heat loss from moving air
  • It reduces heat loss caused by evaporation

Cold Compress

A cold compress or instant ice pack can ease the pain and swelling of minor injuries such as bruises and sprains. Wrap it in a cloth rather than putting it straight on the skin. For burns, cool the area under cool running water instead. They are an essential thing to have in a forest first aid kit in case of an injury.

Hydrocortisone Cream

This cream gives temporary relief from itching caused by minor skin irritation, insect bites, and rashes. It is especially useful if the forest you are visiting has lots of insects.

Gloves

Gloves, preferably non-latex, can be used for infection protection.

Safety Pins

Safety pins are excellent tools to use for securing a wrap or bandage applied to a wound. They can also be used for splinter removal.

Scissors

Scissors can be used to cut bandages to fit wounds, as well as removing dressing so bandages can be changed.

Sterile gauze pads

This is a basic tool in a first aid kit that is used to stop the bleeding and keep the wounds clean. It protects the area from debris and dirt that can cause wound infection.

Thermometer

The most accurate way of checking one’s body temperature is by using a thermometer. This tool can detect a significant change in your temperature that may indicate illness or maybe a signal that you require immediate medical attention.

Tourniquet

A commercial tourniquet can save a life after severe bleeding from an arm or leg that firm direct pressure can't control. It works by stopping blood flow to the limb. Use it only for life-threatening limb bleeding, never on the neck, and call emergency services. A first aid course will teach you how to apply one safely.

Tweezers

Tweezers are used to remove splinters, stingers, and ticks.

Think Prevention

While having the essential supplies for a forest first aid kit is important, it is also worth noting some of these tips from NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Australian forests.

  • Plan and book your camping trip

Book in advance and familiarize yourself with the policies, rules, and regulations of the area you are planning to visit. Many Australian campgrounds require advance booking, a rule that was widely introduced during COVID-19, so check before you go.

  • Safe camping

Bring hygiene recommended products such as water, hand soap, hand wipes, cleaning products, and toilet paper.

  • Campfires

All safety information for each park should be read and followed. Only light fires in designated areas and do not leave any fire, big or small, unattended.

  • Safe Cooking and Heating

Use gas stoves and fuel burners only on stable ground, away from anything that can catch fire, and follow any fire bans. Never cook or run a heater inside a tent or enclosed space; it can cause fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.

  • Pack essentials

Aside from your forest first aid kit, make sure that the following items should be in your pack:

  • Clothing (weather appropriate)
  • Compass
  • Food
  • Flashlight
  • Map
  • Space blanket or piece of plastic
  • Trash bag
  • Water
  • Waterproof matches
  • Whistle

HP Thoughts: Going outdoors is a great way to spend an adventure! There are times, though, when staying indoors is safer, right? No! Accidents often happen indoors, especially with kids running around the house. We prepared a post just for folks like you who worry about what to do when emergencies occur: Medical Supplies to Have At Home.

Conclusion

Whether you are roughing it in a tent or planning a family outing in the forests, there are many ways to make sure that your experience is safe and fun. Consider building your own forest first aid kit or buy from a local pharmacy and add a few items specific to your forest adventure. Tell someone your route and when you plan to return, and consider taking a first aid course before your trip.

Sources

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