Stock your First-Aid Kit

CREDIT| Photo Stephen Frink | Alert Diver

As 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 danshop.co.za). These kits are typically well organized and easy to use. If you choose to put together your own kit, start with the following essentials:

Customise 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 travelling 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 +27 82 810 6010.

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. AD