You never know when an emergency might strike. A first-aid kit is always smart to have on hand—especially when you’re headed into the wilderness on a hiking or camping trip. Conveniently, it’s easy to make an emergency kit using items found at your pharmacy. Learn more about what to include below.

How to Build a First-Aid Kit for the Outdoors

1. Bandages

Bring different sizes of bandages to handle everything from small cuts and blisters to larger scrapes, like from errant tree branches. A pharmacist can recommend appropriate sizes, and can even provide options with waterproofing or extra flexibility. Keep a few large ace bandages in case you need to stabilize a rolled ankle.

2. Sterile Dressings & Dressing Pads

Dressing pads are used to apply pressure to wounds to stop bleeding. Non-adhesive sterile dressings, meanwhile, can cover and protect burns, lacerations, and blisters. Ask the pharmacist for a gauze roll as well to hold the dressing in place. 

3. Tweezers & Scissors

These tiny tools serve a wide variety of purposes. Tweezers can be used to remove ticks or burs, while scissors are ideal for cutting medical tape and bandages. Ask at the pharmacy for trauma scissors—these are specially designed with a blunt end to protect the patient while cutting away clothing.

4. Syringes

Suction syringes can be used to clear the mouth of fluids when providing emergency CPR. Irrigation syringes are used for flushing out wounds before bandaging them. Your pharmacist can demonstrate how to use these devices if you're unfamiliar.

5. Resealable Plastic Bags

Plastic bags have multiple uses. They can be filled with ice and applied to swollen joints or even used to create a wound irrigation device. Get various sizes so you’re prepared for small injuries like a jammed finger, and larger ones like a sore back.

Trust Farris Pharmacy of Rochester, NY, to provide your first-aid kit needs. A cornerstone of the Monroe County community, this pharmacy has been in business for over 45 years. They take pride in providing customers with accurate information and friendly care. Their services include prescription deliveries, vaccine and flu shots, in-home medication reviews, and special orders on medical and surgical supplies. View their full list of services online. For questions about the drug store’s products, call (585) 663-6950.