First Aid Kits
© 2006 RogueTurtle.com
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There are many things that control what size first aid kit you should have. Not the least of which is the skill and training of the persons in your party. Just as important as what to include in the kit, is the items you should not have in the kit.
You should not have any item in the kit that you are not totally familiar with and have received training in the use of that item. The items that immediately come to mind include indo-tracheal tubes, tourniquets and splints. The misuse of these can cause serious injury or death to the person you are trying to take care of. If you don't know how to use an item, don't put it into your kit.
BEFORE YOU STOCK YOUR KIT
I strongly urge every member of your family (including children who
are old enough) to take a certified first aid training course,
including CPR. The American Red Cross is probably the biggest trainer
in the country; although some states and counties, as well as
community colleges, offer these courses, sometimes for free. TAKE ONE AND GET CERTIFIED.
There are a couple of reasons for this: There are newer and better methods for administering first aid now than there ever has been. There have been many changes in CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) since I took my first course in 1962. Do you know what the "Nielson-Hogan, Back-Pressure, Arm-Lift Method" is. I do. In 1962 it was "the" way to perform CPR. They don't even mention it today.
In Florida, as I suspect in other states, if you administer First Aid to an accident victim without being a certified "First Responder" (a formal course of instruction similar to the Red Cross First Aid Course), you can be sued if anything happens to the victim. If you have the training, your chances of being sued are MUCH less (almost zero). I don't mind helping out my fellow human in trouble, but I resent being sued for my efforts. I am a "First Responder" but I still hesitate in today's litigious society. I know my family won't sue, but I'm not sure about my neighbors.
FIRST AID ON THE ROAD
The most probable time for an emergency to arise that may require first aid equipment and training is during the "bug out" phase of the emergency. Things are rushed to the max and accidents happen. You don't want to delay your "bug out" for a relatively minor injury. Unfortunately, you have to really know what you're doing to be able to judge what is a "minor injury" as opposed to a life threatening if-you-don't-go-to-the-hospital type injury.
If the "Bug Out Phase" of a disaster is in full effect, most hospitals will already be swamped taking care of patients with heart attacks, major accidents, dismemberment, and gross things like that. Your "little cut finger" may sit in the waiting room until the disaster is over before you get to see a doctor. It doesn't mean that your cut finger isn't important, but more serious injuries will always come first. It's called Triage. The most sick and injured get treated first. When you think about it, that's the way it should be.
So, you need to be able to handle your own minor injuries without depending on a medical doctor's blessings. It would be nice if every family had their own doctor, but that won't happen.
At the very least, you should purchase, study and practice first aid procedures using a good quality first aid book. This book should be included in your first aid kit. But, if you are NOT SURE about what you're doing, don't do it.
HOW BIG A KIT DO I NEED?
That's like asking "how injured am I going to be?" Let your skill and pocket book be your guide. First aid supplies are not cheap. You can buy pre-made first aid kits from many sources, including those advertised on my web site. I don't endorse any of them, nor do I discount them either. If these kits fill your needs, then by all means, purchase them. However, after doing this type of stuff for years, I prefer to set up my own kits, and not rely on someone else selling me stuff I will never use or need.
Commercial kits have a BIG advantage in that they all come with their own carrying case. It may be a small plastic case, a fabric "fanny pack" kit, or a large metal wall-mounted box. Kits for one person to 1000 people are available for sale. None of the commercial first aid kits will include any item for the Special Needs members of your traveling party. Keep that in mind: You need to save space for the Special Needs members in at least one of the first aid kits you may carry.
KITS? DO I NEED MORE THAN ONE?
Yes. There should be a small, one-person first aid kit in every individual Bug Out kit, as well as a larger one in the vehicle. A third, much larger kit should already be pre-positioned in the pre-planned shelter you are going to. You could also have smaller kits set up along the route, along with stored fuel, food and water. Not a bad plan. Like ammunition and toilet paper, you can't have too many first aid supplies.
LET'S DESIGN OUR OWN KIT
The following discussion pertains to those items that I recommend be included in your kits.
The items listed here are not in any set order of importance, but you should try to establish your own level of urgency for each item I talk about. Some items I really think I need, you might not need as much. I'm over 60 years old so I will include items important to old fogies, and not so much for the 30-year-old group, who probably have infant children to care for. See what I mean. The kit you design should be for caring for those people you know you are responsible for. Not for "anybody" with any imaginable type injury you can think of. If you have a diabetic in your group, that person's individual kit should have a blood testing machine and supplies for 30 days minimum. Don't include it in a kit just because you "might" run into someone who may have diabetes. That's a foolish waste of money.
OVER-THE-COUNTER PAIN RELIEF
Any injury will result in pain. Without a doctor's prescription, you won't be able to get narcotics for really strong pain relief. You need to have pre-purchased bottles (unopened and current) packed in your kit. Think about:
Motrin Pain Relievers: Cold and Sinus, Children's, Infants. Special medications for different ages and physical conditions. I include arthritis strength for me, because I need it. If you don't need it, don't buy it.
Tylenol Pain Relievers: Some people can't take Motrin, so Tylenol is another option for the same type pain relievers. Survey your group to make sure you have the correct brand of pain reliever, or carry both brands. Many pediatricians prescribe Tylenol-only for infants. Ask your doctor ahead of time.
Aspirin: Unless you are on cardiac blood thinners, you probably won't need any aspirin products.
Generic brands: If you are confident that the Generic brand will handle the same problems as the "brand named product", then purchase them. They will save you a lot of money in the long run. It's your call.
CUTS AND SCRAPES
Range from the "boo boo" on the knee, to a gash sliced from shoulder to elbow, or worse. You need the correct first aid products to take care of all types of injuries. Most first aid kits are seriously short of supplies for major trauma wounds. They only give you enough to get directly to the doctor, a matter of minutes or hours.
If you are on the run, you need to consider that it might be days, if not weeks, before you can get to a hospital of any kind. Your first aid kit, therefore, has to have enough items to take care of SERIOUS injuries for up to at least a week. That means, for some injuries, a LOT of dressing changes. Whatever you decide to buy, make sure you have at least a weeks supply FOR EACH PERSON.
Murphy's Law: If you have two people, two people will get hurt.
FIRST AID SUPPLIES - INJURY
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Gauze Pads
Cleanses & covers wounds
For cleansing and applying treatment and covering wounds. 2.99 per box of 10/5.79 box of 25.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH box of 10 in zip-lock bag
VEHICLE KIT: 6
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Non-Stick Pads Small size
Cushions and protects wounds from re-injury Unique triple layer design keeps pads from sticking to wounds. Similar to Gauze Pads above, but prevents injury from sticking to gauze. Better for kids. $1.99 for box of 10
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH in zip-lock bag
VEHICLE KIT: 6
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Rolled Gauze, 2" 2.5 yards
Used to hold sterile dressings in place and is itself sterile until opened. Hard to apply to yourself on arms or head, OK for lower torso and legs. $2.99 per roll
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 6
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Waterproof first aid Tape 1/2" x 10 yards
Stays on in water! Tears easily and adheres securely. May leave residue hard to remove from skin.
Use ONLY in emergency or when you will be traveling in a wet environment. Some people may be allergic to this tape. Test first before using on children. $3.49 per roll
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 0 (NOT NEEDED INSIDE DRY VEHICLE)
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Cloth Tape, 1" 10 yards
All-Purpose Cloth Tape, Durable for Long Lasting Protection, available in 1/2" and 1" dispensers.
Very handy, usually non-allergenic. May come loose in wet environment. Recommend the 1" size and trim down by half if smaller size is needed. Test children for allergy to this tape. $3.49/roll.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH (Same as Paper tape, below)
VEHICLE KIT: 6 ROLLS
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Paper Tape, 1" 10 yards
Non-Irritating Paper Tape, Hypoallergenic for Sensitive Skin, available in 1/2" and 1" dispensers
Probably non-allergenic. Test children prior to use. May be used interchangeably with cloth tape.
Will loosen in wet conditions. $ 3.49/roll
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH (Same as Cloth Tape, above)
VEHICLE KIT: 6 ROLLS (May be best to have 3 rolls cloth, and 3 rolls paper)
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First Aid Cream, 1.5 ounce tube
Skin wound dressing. Provides soothing, non-irritating relief for minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. General purpose dressing for minor "boo boos". OK to use on animals also. Cover cut with light coating until it closes up or scabs over. May need to leave off at night so scabs can form. Totally painless ointment
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH $3.99/tube
VEHICLE KIT: 6
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Vitamin A&D Ointment, 4 ounce tube
Soothing, temporary relief and protection for chafed skin, scrapes, sunburn, and diaper rash.
Temporary protection of minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Helps prevent and temporarily protects chafed, chapped, cracked, or windburned skin and lips. Seals out wetness. $3.99/tube
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 6 (Extremely good for children as it is totally painless)
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Hydrogen Peroxide
Over the Counter: 3% for medical use. Best used as a foaming cleanser for cuts and abrasions. The foaming is a reaction between Hydrogen Peroxide and an enzyme called catalase. When the two meet, the Hydrogen Peroxide bubbles into water and Oxygen gas. The bubbling carries away dirt from wound, with minimal pain to victim. Do not take internally. Very Inexpensive to purchase and easy to store.
16 fluid ounces for about $1.10.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 0 (use water and first aid cream in its place.)
VEHICLE KIT: Minimum of 3
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Sterile Ophthalmic Solution (Eye wash)
1 Fluid Ounce bottles (30 ml)
An eye injury in the woods can shut you down. Rinse injured eye immediately and bandage after treating with Ophthalmic Ointment (next item) 25-30 Dollars each.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
RECOMMEND FOR VEHICLE KIT: 6
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Sterile Ophthalmic Ointment
Muro 128 Sterile Ophthalmic 5% Ointment, Twin Pack 0.25 Oz (7 g) for injured eyes.
After rinse, apply ointment. If needed, bandage over eye with sterile dressing.
28-30 Dollars each
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 6
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BD Individually Foil Wrapped Alcohol Swabs
300 each. $6.50 Good for removal of tape residue and to sterilize wound area. Very painful if applied directly to wound area. Can sanitize small tools or hands. Doesn't cover a lot of area before you need to apply another swab. Children hate them.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 10 EACH foil packets IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 2 packs of 300 each.
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Opticlude Ophthalmic Eye Patch (adhesive)
20 Each, $5.00 - 6.00 per box.
Additional protection provided by wrapping with rolled gauze.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 3 PATCHES EACH IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 3 PACKAGES OF 20
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Large Surgical Sponges
5" x 9", 12 per box.
Extremely handy for very large wounds or burned areas. Can be cut up or folded into thicker pads for more absorbency. $6.50 per box
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 3 SEALED SPONGES IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 10 PACKAGES OF 12
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Sensitive Skin Band Aids
30 each. $3.39
"Ouchless" formula for sensitive skin. Safe for children and adults with latex allergy.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 10 EACH BAND AIDS
VEHICLE KIT: 6 TO 10 BOXES
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Ansell Vinyl-Touch Powder Free, Latex Free Disposable Gloves
50 each. One size fits all.
Highly recommended that care giver wear when treating wounds of others. Non-allergenic. Can use rolled up gloves to store contaminated medical supplies. $5.99 PER BOX
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 2-3 PAIR IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 6 BOXES
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Band-Aid Sheer Extra Large Adhesive Strips
4 in x 1-3/4 in. Great for knees & elbows. Specially Designed for larger cuts and scrapes.
Non-Stick Pad. Unique adhesive and shape help bandage stay in place longer. Sterility guaranteed unless individual wrapper is opened or damaged. Contains natural latex.
Large size covers more skin area. Can be additionally wrapped with gauze bandage. $3.99
Per box of 10
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 4-6 SEALED STRIPS IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 6 BOXES
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Ice Pack, Small
Chemically activated and excellent for treatment of sprains and bruises. Individually boxed. There is almost no injury that can't be helped by the application of ice. (Don't use it on Frost Bite) Costs about $1.10 to 1.30 each.
RECOMMEND FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 2 IN ZIP-LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 25 PACKS.
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Antibacterial Hand and Face Wipes Travel Pack
5-3/4" x 7-1/2", pack of 15 for $1.59. Resealable Towelettes with citrus scent. Good cleanup when soap/water is not available. Kills germs, mild antibacterial solution. Avoid eyes.
Great for cleanup before cooking/eating and before performing first aid. Great all-around morale booster if you can clean up prior to sleeping.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 FULL PACK
VEHICLE KIT: 6 PACKS
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Band-Aid Adhesive Bandage Advance Healing, Large
6 - 1-3/4 x 2-3/4 inch. Multi-day use. Seals to heal. As the strip absorbs moisture from the wound, a white gel cushion will form over the wound to provide extra protection. And like a scab, the strip will work best when left on the wound and in place for as long as possible.
Repels water, dirt and germs that can cause infection. Adhesive strong enough to stay in place for several days. Hypoallergenic. Sterility guaranteed unless individual wrapper is opened or damaged. Good to use when it will be a long time before you can get to a doctor.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 2 SEALED IN ZIP-LOCK BAG.
VEHICLE KIT: 6 BOXES
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3" ACE Bandage.
$5.49 Each Ideal for ankle, knee or lower leg sprains or injury. E-Z clips included.
Can be used to hold bandages in place while hiking. Some training should be obtained prior to using stretch bandages to insure proper fit and to avoid re-injury to wounds. Elastic bandages that are too tight can restrict blood flow and cause tissue damage.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 IN KIT (IF YOU HAVE BEEN TRAINED IN ITS USE)
VEHICLE KIT: 6 (TRAINING REQUIRED!!!)
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TOOLS AND OTHER ITEMS
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Bandage Scissors
Safely lifts bandage away from skin with blunt tips. Cuts metal, cloth, plastic. Stainless steel construction. $5.99
These scissors are good for fishing setup, and other small camp repairs like sewing. Very handy.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 2 EACH
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Tweezers (Sally Hansen LaCross Tini-tweeze Precison Control Tweezers)
Small size, ultra-fine tip sanitizatle from surgical stainless steel. Carrying case included. $3.99 ea.
The survival tweezer is for removing splinters. Splinters get infected, and infection kills. Remove all splinters ASAP or face serious consequences.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT: 1 EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 2 EACH
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10% POVIDONE IODINE SOLUTION BY BETADINE
$16.49 EACH Kills germs promptly in minor cuts, scrapes and burns. Hospital proven.
NOT RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KIT
VEHICLE KIT: 1 EACH
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Deep Woods Off insect repellant
12 Individually wrapped towelettes. Repels mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats, chiggers and fleas. Contains DEET. $5.49 EACH
The difference between a good night's sleep and non at all could be mosquito repellant. Avoid aerosol sprays, too bulky for small kits, too much waste in over-spray.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KITS: 6 towelettes EACH
VEHICLE KIT: 6 BOXES
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Betadine Antiseptic "Swab Aid" Pads.
$17.95 Individual foil wrapped antiseptic pads that are saturated with Betadine Solution. 100 per box.
RECOMMENDED FOR INDIVIDUAL KITS: 6 EACH IN ZIP LOCK BAG
VEHICLE KIT: 2 BOXES
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SUBSTITUTIONS
The above items reflect only my personal preference for my own first aid kit, and does not reflect the opinion of anybody else. I feel comfortable providing first aid using these item. I have trained in the use of these item. There are, however, some substitutes I could be talked into including, depending on the wishes of my fellow travelers.
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Liquid Bandage Skin Crack Gel
10 Applications - 10 Applicators, 40 Drops. Fills in & protects painful skin cracks. Reduces minor pain instantly. 100% Waterproof. No sting! Gel dries quickly and forms a clear, flexible, 100% waterproof protective seal that keeps out water, dirt and germs to help prevent infection. $5.99
Substitute for a band-aid type product. Particularly good for kids in wet conditions.
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Neosporin + Pain
#1 Doctor recommended brand for infection protection. Soothes the pain of burns. Suitable for your whole family (ages 2 and up). No other triple antibiotic ointment kills more types of bacteria.
First aid to help prevent and provide temporary relief of pain or discomfort in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. 1 Ounce tube: $8.99
Substitute for First Aid Cream; or in addition to J & J First Aid Cream.
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There may be other substitutes, and you can fill your own kit with whatever you want. Some kits include sterile water for rinsing off wounds. Can't hurt, but it's heavy.
I warned you these items would not be cheap. Taking them in order in which they appear in my article, here's now the costs break down. Costs and sources may vary greatly depending on your local area. These are typical for Walgreens, in 2006:
| ITEM | INDIVIDUAL KIT | VEHICLE
KIT | COST EACH | TOTAL COST
INDIVIDUAL | TOTAL COST
VEHICLE | REMARKS |
| Gauze Pads (Box 10) | 1 | 6 | 2.99 | 2.99 | 17.94 | |
| Non-Stick Pads (Box of 10) | 1 | 6 | 1.99 | 1.99 | 11.94 | |
| Rolled gauze, 2.5 yds | 1 | 6 | 2.99 | 2.99 | 17.94 | |
| Waterproof first aid tape 1/2" x 10 yds | 1 | 0 | 3.49 | 3.49 | 0 | None needed in vehicle kit |
| Cloth Tape, 1" | 1 | 3* | 3.49 | 3.49 | 10.38 | *3 each of cloth |
| Paper Tape, 1" | 1 | 3* | 3.49 | 3.49 | 10.38 | *Tape/paper tape |
| First Aid Cream | 1 | 6 | 3.99 | 3.99 | 23.94 | |
| Vitamin A&D Ointment 4 oz tube | 1 | 6 | 3.99 | 3.99 | 23.94 | |
| Hydrogen Peroxide 3% 16 fl oz. | 0 | 3 | 1.10 | 0 | 3.30 | |
| Sterile Ophthalmic Solution 1 fl oz | 1 | 6 | 28.00* | 28.00 | 168.00 | *Average Price per tube |
| Foil wrapped alcohol swabs Package of 300 | 0* | 2 | 6.50 | 0 | 13.00 | *Individual kit use 10 pkgs out of vehicle kit. |
| Ophthalmic Eye Patch Package of 20 | 0* | 3 | 5.50* | 0 | $16.50 | *Individual kit use 3 pkgs out of vehicle kit |
| Large surgical sponges Packages of 12 each | 0* | 10 | 6.50 | 0 | 65.00 | *Individual kit use 3 out of veh. kit |
| Sensitive Skin Band Aid, 30 each | 1/3 box | 6 | 3.39 | 1.13 | 10.17 | May need more if you have a lot of children. |
| Disposable Gloves, 50 each | 0* | 6 | 5.99 | 0 | 35.94 | *Individual kit use 3 pair in lip-lock |
| Extra large adhesive strips, 10 each box | 1/2 box | 6 | 3.99 | 2.00 | 23.94 | |
| Ice pack, small | 2 | 25 | *1.20 each | 2.20 | 30.00 | *average price |
| Antibacterial hand and face wipes travel pack | 1 | 6 | 1.59 | 1.59 | 9.54 | |
| Band-aid Advanced Healing, large, 6/pkg | 0* | 6 | 4.99 | 0 | 29.94 | *Individual kit use 2 in zip lock bag |
| 3" Ace Bandage | 1 | 6 | 5.49 | 5.49 | 32.94 | Training needed |
| Bandage Scissors | 1 | 2 | 5.99 | 5.99 | 11.98 | |
| LaCross Tweezers | 1 | 2 | 5.99 | 5.99 | 11.98 | |
| 10% Provodine solution by Betadine | 0 | 1 | 16.49 | 0 | 16.49 | |
| Deep Woods Off Insect Repellent Pads box of 12 towelettes | 1/2 box | 6 | 5.49 | 2.74 | 32.94 | |
| Betadine "Swab Aid" Pads 100 per box | 0* | 2 | 17.95 | 0 | 35.90 | *Individual kit use 6 in zip lock bag |
| Liquid Bandage Skin Crack Gel, 10 applicators | | | 5.99 | | | |
| Neosporin + Pain, 1 Ounce | | | 8.99 tube |
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| TOTAL COST: | | | 81.55* | 664.02 |
The vehicle kit is approximately 8 times the cost of the individual kit. Note (*) that part of the items from the vehicle kit are not included in the individual kit, but are small portions taken from the vehicle kit. The vehicle kit represents the "refill" compartment for the individual kits to use when they run low. The vehicle kit also can contain those items that are not needed for the individual kit, but could be needed for the care of a group of people. Example, the 10% Provodine solution by Betadine. This solution is more used in room/tent set up for first aid for large numbers of people.
THE VEHICLE KIT ABOVE WILL SUFFICE FOR 4 TO 5 PEOPLE, NO MORE. ADD MORE CONTENTS PER ITEM IF YOUR GROUP IS LARGER THAN 5 PEOPLE.
FIRST AID in NUCLEAR FALLOUT CONDITIONS
The techniques and tools for the care of people exposed to nuclear radiation are very much the same as for any other scrape or burn patient. I will have a special article coming out in the future called "The REAL NUCLEAR THREAT", that goes into probably more detail than you want. I have to re-read it myself every few months, just to keep all the details from drifting off.
Nuclear fallout may cause radiation sickness. Everything that will happen to a radiation patient depends on the amount of exposure in R/hour AND the DURATION of that exposure. The example I use in the book is the X-ray Technician in the hospital. The radiation used in each x-ray is not harmful to the patient, he or she is in and out in seconds, with no harm done. The Technician, however, if left unprotected, would absorb small amounts over and over again, until radiation sickness would set in. Even at these relatively low levels, if left unprotected, the cumulative radiation could be lethal.
This leads me to a part of the first aid kit that may, or may not, be needed. The medicine is called Potassium Iodate Tablets.
The problem is radioactive iodine caused by fallout from a nuclear accident or incident. Prevent irreparable harm to your children, your loved ones and you. Radioactive Iodine attacks the thyroid. The thyroid controls growth, especially in children.
Potassium Iodate does not "neutralize" radioactive iodine, but instead, it fills up the thyroid so that there is no room in the thyroid to absorb the harmful radioactive iodine.
Sounds confusing, doesn't it.
The shelf life for these pills is over 5, and sometimes 10 years. If you don't use it now (thank God) then you won't need to re-supply for a long time . You need one bottle for every adult, and one bottle for every two children.
The usual recommended "daily dose" is as follows:
- Adults (including the elderly) 2 tablets
- Children aged 3-12 years 1 tablet
- Children aged 1 month-3 years 1/2 tablet
- Newborns to 1 month 1/4 tablet
Follow label instructions if they conflict with the above dosages.
For young children or newborn children, the 1/2 or 1/4 tablet may be crushed and taken mixed with milk or water. Under emergency conditions 1/2 tablet may be given to newborns as a starting dose.
The product above sells 200 tablets for $24.00. Other brands sell in the vicinity of 21 to 23 dollars. My best advice is to follow the guidelines of the local FEMA announcements that will follow any and all nuclear incidents. If you live in the area of a nuclear power reactor, the local pharmacy may have the current up-to-date information on Potassium Iodate or its equivalent substitute. Remember, it's most important for children who are still growing.
If you are pregnant or breast-feeding you should normally not take more than two doses for a minor "reactor leak". Babies up to a month old should only received one dose for a minor "reactor leak". However, this should be determined by authorities.
If you swallow a lot of the tablets all together, or if you think a child has accidentally swallowed any of the tablets, contact your nearest hospital emergency room or Doctor immediately.
AFTER TAKING POTASSIUM IODATE
Potassium Iodate can be taken by the majority of people, without any problems. However, like medicines or even supplements, it may occasionally cause side-effects in some people. These may include:
- An overactive thyroid gland (characterized by weight loss, increased appetite, intolerance to heat and increased sweating)
- An enlarged thyroid gland with or without the development of a condition in which there is thickening of the skin and body tissues, most notably the face.
- Although rarely, hypersensitivity reactions such as rash, swollen salivary glands, headache, wheezing or coughing, and stomach upsets may occur. If you have these or any other effects, while taking Potassium Iodate or Potassium Iodide tell a doctor immediately.
- Keep In mind that if you are allergic to any Iodine product, then you will also be allergic to Radioactive Iodine. Please consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
- Warnings: about 1 person in 2-million people are allergic to KI. If a rash appears then you may be only "mildly" allergic. You must make the decision, which is worse--radiation or a rash!
- Remember: children are extremely susceptible to radiation. They come first -- always!
My article "The Real Nuclear Threat" should be out this winter. It's a long file and very difficult to get together for publication on the web. In this article, I'll explain what symptoms you can expect to see in people exposed to high levels of radiation, and what the appropriate first aid procedures (or long care procedures) are possible. The hardest fact of all, is that if you have received too much radiation for too long a time, you are going to die. And it won't be pretty.
BUT...You now have to weigh the chances of this happening in your own neighborhood. Right now, in 2006, I rate the possibility as VERY LOW. This may change depending on what Iran does, or what North Korea does; but if it blows up in Iran, or North Korea, who cares?
PUTTING TOGETHER YOUR KIT(S)
No two travel (individual) kits are the same, unless you've purchased a commercial model. If you followed some of my guidelines your kit will be significantly larger than the commercial brands. I have had to deal with severe bleeding head wounds in the woods, and I can tell you flat out that you will use up all the pads and dressings you own before you get medical assistance.
The greater size of your kits now present a minor problem: What to carry them in? Listing the requirements (in some order of preference): Starting with the INDIVIDUAL KIT FIRST:
1. Portable and easy to carry container. A back-pack is preferred to a suitcase. A fanny-pack is preferred over a hand-carried bag. Whatever container you select should be a "hands-free" container.
2. Water proof: If possible, but in today's world of plastic containers and zip-lock bags, this is not absolutely a requirement. If the waterproofing is heavier than a similar container that is not waterproof, choose the lighter weight of the two.
3. Strong: It must be able to take a lot of abuse and keep working. A bag with a cheap plastic zipper that breaks if the wind blows was a very bad choice. I prefer velcro fasteners over almost any other kind. They are strong and waterproof, and they won't rust or break. Their only drawback is that they collect lint and small threads. (That gives you something to do at night...pick out the threads from the velcro).
4. Inexpensive. This is relative. Donald Trump, buy one with gold buttons. Everyone else, shop around for the correct size container.
CORRECT SIZE
In order to determine the correct size, you are going to have to have almost all the items you are going to put into the pack purchased ahead of time. At first, before you have all the items collected, keep them together in a small cardboard box. But keep them together. If you don't, they will slowly disappear all over the house, and get used up before you can make up your kits.
Once they are all reasonably assembled, stack them all together on a table and see what kind of bag or container you will need. The backpacks used by today's school kids are very well made and come in a great variety of sizes and designs. When you find one you like, make sure you leave about a 10% growth factor so you can stuff in last minute items you "can't live without". We all do it.
REMEMBER: The FIRST AID KIT for INDIVIDUALS MUST BE INCLUDED IN THE
INDIVIDUAL'S BUG OUT KIT... or at least be in addition to it. It could lace onto the outside of a larger pack, or be a separate section inside the Bug Out Kit itself. It could be a fanny pack worn under the back pack. It could be hung on the front shoulder straps of the back pack. Whatever your design, practice walking with the final product. Once the emergency hits, its too late for adjustments.
PRACTICE AND DRILLS
Absolutely no one I know of (except me) likes to have fire drills or emergency evacuation drills. I like 'em. It points out your weak areas and your strong points. It tells you if your plan is worth a !%*#$, or if it "needs lots of work". Take a weekend trip to a local State Park. Only don't tell your family you are going until 10 minutes before you leave. Watch the panic on their faces. "10 minutes...are you NUTS?" And of course, the answer to that must be "Yes".
Grab up all your hard earned supplies and kits, and throw them into the family jalopy and bug out. Leave the pets, you'll only be gone for the weekend. Or take them with you, if you want.
Drive to the woods, set up a shelter. Pretend all civilization has ceased and you are the only family left on the face of the earth. No TV, no radio, no electricity except what you bring with you. Food and water will only come from your emergency kits. No beer, no cokes, only water to drink. Sleep under the stars, or better yet, in your emergency shelter you have so painstakingly erected.
Your first drill will be a disaster, they always are. You will have forgotten more things than you remembered. Your tent will be one peg short. There will be a hopeless tangle in the tent lines, or the rain will drive you to spend the night in the car. All these things can and will happen in real life. TRAIN to OVERCOME them. Don't fight them, GO WITH THEM.
THE VEHICLE KIT
This first aid kit is significantly larger than the individual kits. It can be as large as a foot locker, and in fact, a foot locker is a good choice of containers for it. Since it will be larger than most, you need to also set all the stuff aside before deciding on the final size and shape of the kit's container. Like the individual kit, it is custom sized.
Or, if your family vehicle is smaller, you may want to split it up into several smaller containers that would be easier to pack into the car/truck. Speaking of trucks, if you are using an open bed pickup truck, take care to 1). Waterproof everything in the back end, and 2). Secure everything that can be stolen out of the back. Heavy straps and/or chains will discourage looting your stuff out of your truck, even if you're in it. Make that Doberman earn his Alpo... Sit on the stuff in the back and growl.
You do not need immediate access to the vehicle first aid kit, it is to re-supply the individual kits and to start the basis of your new shelter kit when you reach your destination. Therefore, it can be packed FIRST and then unpacked LAST.
DO NOT MARK YOUR KITS WITH A RED CROSS...OR LABEL THEM "FIRST AID". This marks them as "high-value" packs and will be the first thing stolen after guns and food. The more they can look like "normal" suitcases, the better off you are. Remember, subterfuge and camouflage are your best protection. No one will waste their time stealing junk. Don't make it easy for thieves to steal your stuff.
LAST MINUTE ADVICE
First aid in a survival situation can be a life-or-death event. You may be miles away, or days away, from competent medical treatment. You need to be aware of all sorts of problems you may face, up to and including automobile accidents, shootings, muggings, and broken limbs. If you don't feel you can handle this now, then enroll in a course of instruction that will, at least, give you an idea of what to do until you can get to a hospital.
In a disaster, medical help may never reach you, you may have to go to it. Keep your radio on to find out where the "Disaster Guru's" are sending injured people. Be prepared for long lines of panic and fear, mixed in with thirst and starvation. Get in - get what you need from the medics - and get out again. Go back to your shelter, away from the desperate people who will cut your throat for an aspirin.
If you are careful and deliberate when you are setting up your shelter, you should be OK. It's when you get rushed, over-tired, and under-fed that you make the mental mistakes that lead to injuries. Keep your knives sharp, as dull knives slip and cause more injuries than any other reason around campsites. Keep everyone busy, and divide up the work. Even kids can help with the campsite. The more involved you keep people, the more fun it can be, and the less likely one person is to be over-worked.
Do you watch the TV show "SURVIVOR"? A group of people deliberately put on a desert island to ultimately win a million dollars. During the very first few days of every new season, you can tell who the real survivors are, and who are just there to ride on the backs of others to win the money. If you can't, you need to watch closer. The "Mental Attitude" of a group, or even one member of a group, can make or break a survival camp. Keep your own attitude "UP" and don't let the problems get you down. There is a solution to every problem, and it's easier to face in a group than by yourself. Good luck.
A Last-Minute addition, too good to leave out.
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Medium Butterfly Bandages - 100/Box
Depending on manufacturer, they run about $7.00 to 10.00 per box of 100.
These are indispensable if you have a wound that won't stay shut. We've all had one. It's just a little too deep, or a little too long to keep closed without stitches. These little jewels take the place of sutures. The trick is to hold the two sides of the wound together so the tape will hold. This will be almost impossible doing it to yourself in a hard-to-reach spot. But, with a little help, it's very easy. One person dries and holds the skin together, the other tapes it tightly together.
CAREFUL: Don't "pucker" the wound or you could leave an ugly scar. The edges just have to touch each other, not overlap each other.
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DO IT YOURSELF...
Butterfy Bandages
In the field, if you run out of butterfly bandages, you can use regular tape and a pair of scissors to make up a butterfly bandage. I have done it for years, with doctor's telling me that without these bandages there would have been ugly scarring...and several doctors who left my butterfly bandages on in place of sutures (which would have re-opened the wound).
Use scissors to make 4 small cuts, about 1/3 of the way across a piece of tape, as shown on the left. KEEP IT AS CLEAN AS POSSIBLE.
Then, carefully fold the tape - STICKY SIDES TOGETHER - along the dotted line so that there is a spot in the center of the tape that has NO adhesive. This is the part of the tape that passes over the actual cut line in the skin.
Very large, or very small Butterfly Bandages can be made using this technique. Always use enough bandages to hold cut skin together FIRMLY, to resist re-opening wound.
To remove, pull each side TOWARDS the cut, not away from it.
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I took a renewal course of instruction in First Aid recently, and they do not teach the butterfly bandaging technique any more. Modern first aid assumes that we will always have "the golden hour" to save lives.
The "Golden Hour", in disaster or survival conditions is a thing of the past. It can't and won't happen. In a storm, when the winds reach a certain maximum sustained speed, ambulances will NOT be dispatched, because the risk to the ambulance and its crew is too great. You are on your own. Traveling on a packed highway getting out of New Orleans you will not get "a Golden Hour" of anything, let alone medical assistance.
The Rogue Turtle doesn't include the purchased butterfly bandage in his kit because I can make them almost as fast as I can unwrap them from their "sanitary wrapper". But, if you like this idea, buy a box or two and try them out. Take your time, and wounds that need stitches, will last a long time awaiting medical assistance.
In Vietnam, I had occasion to bandage up an arm of a buddy when we were a long way from base camp. He had about a 3" gash in his arm. After 3 hours of driving back to base, we finally got a corpsman to look at his arm. He said "Who put on the butterfly bandages?" When I said that I had, he patted me on the back and said, "Good Job". It seemed the doctor wasn't there and he wasn't qualified to do sutures yet. There was 9 hours of waiting until he got stitched up. And when he did, the doctor left my butterfly bandages on his arm. His arm was infection-free because my bandages had completely sealed off the cut from the air. This was a "good" feeling you don't get much during wartime. My buddy was back to work in 5 days. The jerk got a Purple Heart. I got zip. Such is life.
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