What to Keep in an Emergency Boating Kit
If you own a boat, it’s a good idea to assemble a first-aid kit so that you will be prepared for potential emergencies. You should fill your boating emergency kit with everything you may need to handle various types of crises or injuries. First-aid kits come in an assortment of sizes, but you can put together your own as well. Your kit should be portable, and you should store it in a place that’s easily accessible.
Basic Elements to Put in a Boating Emergency Kit
A first-aid boating kit is similar to an ordinary emergency kit, but there are several additional items you may want to stock for a boating excursion. Numerous hazards can occur if you are exposed to the water, wind and sun. In order to ensure you and your passengers are safe, stock your first-aid kit with all the basics as well as any water-related emergency supplies.
Basic elements to any emergency kit include first-aid ointments such as antibiotic, anti-itch and antiseptic lotions or creams. You should also stock a large supply of adhesive bandages in assorted sizes. Roller bandages, gauze pads, elastic bandages and adhesive cloth tape are also necessities. Be sure to keep two pairs of scissors as well; one pair should be for heavy duty cutting.
Your boating emergency kit should also have a complete first-aid instruction booklet, tweezers, cotton swabs, insect repellent, an oral thermometer and an instant cold compress. Keep a variety of medications in it as well, including aspirin, anti-nausea medicine and antacids. In case an emergency arises, it’s a good idea to have access to the phone numbers of local doctors, poison control centers and pharmacies.
Extra Emergency Supplies
Boating is an activity that comes with unique risks. In order to handle any situation that may occur, try to think ahead. Consider any possible scenario that may necessitate a special first-aid supply. Fill your kit with a few extra large gauze pads or bandages. You may also need butterfly bandages for deep wounds, fresh water for cleansing abrasions or cuts, absorbent compress dressings, and clean cloths to control bleeding.
In the event that you and your passengers need to remain on the boat for a long period of time, a Mylar space blanket will keep you warm. Storing an additional marine battery on your boat may prevent breakdown issues. Be prepared for serious emergencies that require CPR. For safely performing rescue breaths, a CPR mask is an indispensable addition to your emergency kit. Keep some latex-free gloves handy for additional protection.
Safeguarding yourself and your boating companions is a must. Boating emergencies can range from mild to severe, and emergency situations often occur unexpectedly. It’s important to update the items in your kit regularly and replace any items that are expired, broken or used. By supplying your boating emergency kit with up-to-date essentials, you can increase your chances of surviving any crisis you are faced with.
