photo by oddharmonic
One time I was discussing the contents of my emergency kit with an interested individual. Sharp fellow, this guy. I had quite a lengthy list of what was included in my kit (similar to how it is still) and after reading through the list, he said he’d add a pair of work gloves. And I thought how many times I’ve done yard work or helped with construction work and the difference in the damage done to my hands at the end of the day depending on whether I was wearing gloves or not.
How much of my first aid kit could I save for real injuries if I were to avoid scraping my hands up? Not to mention getting back to work the next day–no blisters, slivers, scrapes, etc. affecting my ability to work to my full potential. So work gloves are now in my kit.
Gloves aren’t the only preventative preparedness worth having. Some preventions are “things” you can stock up on, and others are knowledge you can gain. Here are just a few more prevention ideas, feel free to add any ideas you have!
- Any protective gear that can prevent injuries including moleskin for shoes to prevent blistering
- Gear or a plan to stay dry in wet weather
- Staying clear of any heat source that could burn
- Sunblock and/or clothing that provides shade
- Insect repellent
- Knowledge of poisonous plants in your area
- N95 masks
- Being aware of your surroundings
- Avoiding known dangerous areas
Of course, prevention applies to the children in your group as well–as the adult you may be doing double duty for those too small to understand that hot stoves burn or swift running water will drown them. Simple steps to prevent problems and complications can keep you and your family safer and make your survival situation a little more comfortable.
As Benjamin Franklin once said, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”