Camping can be rejuvenating and enjoyable, but to make sure accidents or injuries don’t ruin the fun, first aid certification can prove helpful. If certification isn’t possible, knowing the basics will go a long way. The guide below will help you better understand why first aid while camping is important.

Why is Knowing First Aid Useful?

Despite your best efforts, accidents and injuries will sometimes happen. When you’re camping, you’ll likely be far from clinics or hospitals. Knowing how to alleviate problems or at least provide care until professional help arrives will put you in control of the situation. With first aid certification, you can ensure that everyone stays safe.

What Kinds of Injuries and Accidents May Occur While Camping?

Sunburns are common for campers, as are cuts, scratches, scrapes, and bruises. Some campers are allergic to plant or insect bites. Snake bites, especially poisonous ones, are also to be considered. Falling, twisting an ankle, or breaking a bone are also possibilities.

A first aid certification would provide you with the health emergency training to deal with any of these injuries. Regardless, you should bring a first aid kit with you.

What Items Should Be in a Camping First Aid Kit?

Pack sunscreen to keep sunburns at bay, and, regardless, include aloe vera in case of sunburn. Antihistamine protects from allergic reactions. It, along with hydrocortisone, alleviates itchiness from insect bites as well. Antibiotic cream disinfects cuts, scrapes, and scratches. So does hydrogen peroxide, which can also sanitize areas where you eat or relieve yourself. 

Use tweezers for splinters, bandages for open wounds, scissors for cutting bandages, and cold packs for bruises and twisted ankles. Bring painkillers like ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen, or painkilling creams and sprays. More serious injuries, like broken bones, require bandaging and splinting, which is something you may be able to practice if you get first aid certification.

Lastly, bring your cell phone. You can call for help or look up directions and treatment information in emergencies. If you’d like, keep it locked in the first aid kit unless it’s necessary.

To assure a safe camping trip, get first aid certification from Northern KY Emergency Medical Services in Fort Thomas, KY. For nearly 50 years, their CPR and first aid training services verified by the American Heart Association and American Safety and Health Institute have helped people save lives. Their expert instructors also offer first aid kits that you can take camping or anywhere. Find out their class schedule by calling (859) 572-4511 or by checking out their website.