First Aid Kits

Accidents happen, it's a fact of life. While it's possible to identify and reduce risks taken, there is always the possibility that some unforeseen accident will happen.

A well stocked first aid kit is one of the most important items you can have on any walk, and above all, training in First Aid is highly desirable.

On an extended trip it may even be important to stock items you wouldn't normally carry, such as medications, but consult your own doctor for advice.

It may be a good idea to complete a first aid course, and for one member of a party to have a First Aid certificate.

The Red Cross and Saint Johns supply good kits for bushwalkers and campers. First aid kits are also available at outdoor shops.

The following First Aid Kit assumes that a minimum group of 4 persons could provide sufficient bandages to immobilise one person who suffers a major injury.
On remote walks, safety dictates that, if there is an accident, one person should stay with the victim, and at least two should walk out for help.

Items For a General First Aid Kit

Essential (To be carried by each walker)

• A waterproof carrying case
• 2 crepe bandages 10cm x 2.3m
• 1 waterproof dressing 8cm x 10cm
• 1 Triangular bandage
• 1 Emergency reflective foil blanket
• Small note book and pencil
• Pain killing tablets (Aspirin/Panadol)

Optional

• Band-Aids
• Sticking plaster
• 1 Eyepad
• Saline eye wash
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Safety pins
• Small plastic bags
• Alcohol swabs
• Steri-strips
• Plastic disposable gloves
• Antihistamine tabs
• 1 "Stingose" 25ml spray
• Antiseptic cream
• Water treatment tablets
• First aid booklet

Extended First Aid Kit

All items essential and optional as listed above plus

• Blister kit/corn pads
• Sports injury spray and lotions
• Tablets to reduce the runs, e.g. Imodium
• Gastrolyte or similar rehydration treatment
• Antibiotic pills, (prescription required)
• Flagyl, tablets for Giardia, (prescription required)

Please consult your Doctor if you are on any regular medication. Some of the areas visited may require a 2 or 3 day walk to the nearest help.

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