Here are a few of the herbs recommended in the kit and a few I suggest adding as well.Note: dosages below are for Tinctures / decoctions not for essential oils. Essential oils are MUCH more potent that Tinctures and decoctions. Always consult a doctor before using any course of treatment.

Lavender. Absolutely outstanding for burns. Stops pain almost instantly and seriously promotes healing of burns. This should be in EVERY kitchen on the planet.

Arnica. This external remedy makes a great massage liniment for sore and cramped muscles. It will decrease pain and prevent swelling and bruising associated with torn ligaments, sprains, crushed fingers and toes, and broken bones — provided the skin is not broken. Arnica works best if applied immediately after an injury and continued every couple hours for the first day.

Cayenne. Five to ten drops diluted in two ounces of water can be used internally for frostbite and hypothermia. It moves the blood from the center of the body to the peripheral areas, warming hands and feet. A couple drops under the tongue will help to revive someone in shock or trauma. Used externally for heavily bleeding lacerations, it will coagulate the blood to stanch the flow (though it stings a mite). Warning: Do NOT GET IN THE EYES! Think pepper spray extra strength.

Valerian. As an antispasmodic and painkiller, this herb relieves intestinal and menstrual cramps, headaches and general aches or pains. As a nervine, it will bring sleep to an exhausted person. The dosage range is 30 to 60 drops.

Echinacea. Besides possessing the ability to increase the supply of white blood cells to an infected area, thus boosting the immune system, echinacea is also antibiotic and antibacterial to gram positive bacteria such as strep or staph. It’s helpful with fevers, poisoning, or any type of internal infection and has reportedly been used for poisonous insect and snake bites by many native Plains tribes. Echinacea is a good preventative and supportive herb for the onset of the flu or common cold. The dosage ranges from 30 to 60 drops, the higher ranges used for fevers and acute situations. For toothaches, it can be massaged into the surrounding gums and teeth. For poisonous bites, 60 drops every 15 minutes is appropriate.

Milk thistle combination. This can include milk thistle, burdock and kelp in equal parts. An alternative to chaparral that acts to leach heavy metals and radiation toxicity from the thyroid, blood, and liver as well as protects the liver against further damage. Good to take before and after dental x-rays and after taking Tylenol or Advil.

Note: link actually goes to a dandylion blend, but it does the same thing.

Quassia. As an antimicrobial, this herb is traditionally used for bacterial diarrhea, dysentery, and giardia — a lower gastrointestinal complaint contracted by drinking contaminated water. The standard dose is three to five droppersful every six hours. To treat suspected bad water, add 30 drops to each quart of water.

Note: link goes to a blend that does the same thing.

Slippery elm capsules. Used for food poisoning, this powder combines and buffers poisons in the stomach and bowels to decrease toxic absorption. It can soothe mucous membranes and settle an upset stomach.

Ginger root capsules. Use two caps for motion and morning sickness. It’s also effective for nausea caused by flu or bad food.

Marshmallow-peppermint oil capsules. This is an easy-to-make combination of four parts marshmallow powder to one part peppermint oil. The powder in this formula is basically a vehicle for the peppermint oil to reach the small intestines without dissolving in the stomach. The capsules reduce intestinal cramping that can accompany any gastrointestinal tract infection. For children not able to swallow capsules, you can dissolve the contents in four cups of juice or sweetened water.

Peppermint. A little on the temples can help you stay awake and a few drops in water will settle an upset stomach.

Tea tree oil. Called a “first aid kit in a bottle,” tea tree (Melaleuca leucadendron) oil has strong antifungal and antibiotic properties with antiseptic abilities. It can be used for fungal infections, pus-filled wounds or burns, cold sores, and herpes lesions. For use with earaches and on sensitive skin, dilute with equal parts olive oil. Use sparingly — tea tree oil goes a long way.

 

Other Sources:

http://www.SimpleHomeBrewing.com

http://www.squidoo.com/easybeermaking

http://www.squidoo.com/honeymead

Should a cat attend obedience classes? Actually, there is no need to. Cats can develop good behavior with the proper training aids. 

Cat Training Aids

Food Tray The cat must be taught to eat only in their food trays to avoid begging constantly or having them steal food from the dining table. These must be situated far from the dinner table. It will also help to feed the cat before dinner. They sleep after they eat.

Scratching Posts It is part of the nature of the cat to claw, however this should not be tolerated. It can be very damaging to the furniture. This can be easily resolved by providing scratching posts for cats to claw on instead of the furniture.

Repellent Liquid repellent can also be used to keep cats from scratching on certain furniture. The taste of such repellents is so terrible that the cat will learn to stop from scratching eventually.

Yarns and Balls Cats also need exercise. They are generally playful. Kittens like to play with just anything. To avoid having them tinker with delicate things, it is good to give them yarns or soft balls to play with. Older cats can be trained to use harmless leads.

Treats Cats can be taught tricks. They can be taught to shake hands or fetch something. However, to properly train cats, it is important to give them rewards when they successfully accomplished a task. Treats are good rewards.

Litter Trays One of the drawbacks of keeping a cat indoors is dealing with their dirt. Litter trays will come in handy at this point. This is a must in toilet training an indoor cat.

Water Spray Fighting with other cats and caterwauling are also problematic cat situations. Spraying the cats with water when they do these things will eventually keep them from doing them. The water spray is a helpful deterrent for other bad behaviors.

Cat Grass Plant eating is also a habit of the cats. They do this to induce vomiting and sometimes just out of curiosity. Cat grass is a good substitute to keep your plants safe.

Nesting Spot Cats enjoy going to elevated spots to see more. It is their way of seeking company. To keep them from jumping on furniture, it is best to get a nesting spot. This should elevated and comfortable. Rub a treat into the spot to attract the cat.

Training the cat with these aids will still require patience and consistency. Still, this is worth all the efforts. The good behavior of the cat is reward enough.

Babies are prone to accidents that may hurt them or cause injury. Fortunately, the majority of these cases can be treated at home without professional medical assistance. Here is what you can do in the following cases:

Bruises

• Most falls during this learning period will not cause serious injury. Bruises generally heal naturally over a week or so, without causing much pain.

• As long as the skin is not broken there is no need to bandage the area or otherwise cover it up.

• You can use an ice pack to reduce swelling and the black-and-blue discoloration of bruising. This should be applied for 15-minute periods several times a day during the first 48 hours. A pack of frozen vegetables or ice cubes and water in a plastic bag that is wrapped in a paper towel or wash cloth will do if an ice pack is not available. An ice pack may be alternated with a heat pack after 48 hours.

• Cuddle or feed the baby as you apply the ice pack on the injury.

You should call the doctor in the following cases:

• Bruises from falls such as falling off a bed or down a flight of stairs.

• You notice a bruise behind your baby’s ear after a head banging incident.

• Bruise does not heal/fade in two weeks.

• Baby is in pain for more than twenty four hours

Cuts

Small cuts need only be cleaned and left to heal without bandaging. These are best treated as follows:

• Stop bleeding by lightly pressing with a clean towel or bandage.

• Check for glass, dirt or foreign material and remove it with cold running water.

• Wash with warm water and soap and pat dry with a clean towel.

• After cleaning, small cuts may be left to heal naturally.

• Deeper cuts will need an adhesive bandage to pull in the cut edges of the skin together and facilitate healing.

Burns

Superficial burns, called first-degree burns, can be treated as follows:

• Cool the area of the burn by submerging under water or using cool compresses for 10-15 minutes. Dry the area with a clean towel and cover it with a sterile bandage.

• Consult your doctor about acetaminophen or ibuprofen, or other medication to ease the pain.

• Do not apply powder, butter, or grease to avoid the risk of infection.

• First-degree burns usually heal in a few days.

For more information on Baby Care, please visit Greatdad.com

Going on an extended camping trip is the best way to experience the outdoors. But while camping trips can be a lot of fun, they are also potentially dangerous. You’re away from civilization and must learn to fend for yourself. To ensure that you have the best camping experience possible, make sure to bring the following ten essential camping tools.

Flashlight

It gets dark out in the wilderness. And we mean Really Dark. When you go camping, always make sure to have a flashlight available. Buy a headlamp if you can, as these leave you hands free to work. Keep extra bulbs and batteries handy.

Water bottle

You can live weeks without food, but only days without water. Keep enough water to last you your entire trip and invest in a water purification kit in case of emergencies.

Fire Starters

When you’re in need a fire, it’s good to have a reliable fire starter that won’t be affected by weather. Which is why it’s worth your while to invest in waterproof matches; they’ll keep you warm and safe from the cold at night regardless of the weather.

First Aid Kit

First aid kits are crucial to have when you’re out camping, away from hospitals and emergency rescue crews. Include in your kit a good number of band-aids, sterilized gauze, gauze adhesive, pen or pencil and paper, scissors, antiseptic, elastic bandages, and a CPR mouth barrier device.

Self-Rescue Aids

A rescue mirror and a rescue whistle should form a part of every camper’s pack. In an emergency situation, you can scream for help all you want, but your voice won’t carry far and you’ll run out of it quickly. A whistle, on the other hand, carries further and is louder. Plus, you can whistle for a lot longer than you can yell. Rescue mirrors are important in case you need to signal an overhead plane.

Non-perishable foods

Power bars and MRE’s are key for long camping trips involving heavy hiking. Non-perishables will save you time and weight, while giving you all the calories you need.

Rope

Rope is useful for building shelters and for emergency rescue scenarios. There are literally thousands of ways you might use a rope, and you never know when you’ll need it or when it would be nice to have. Learn a few basic knots, like the bowline and the square knot.

Compass

No digital map is going to replace the durability and reliability of a good old fashioned compass. Keep one with you at all times when camping.

Pocketknife

Pocketknives and other leatherman tools are good for a wide variety of tasks. Always cut away from yourself and keep your blade well sharpened.

Appropriate clothes

Dress in layers of appropriate clothes. Weather can change drastically and quickly when you’re out in the wilderness.

Going on holiday gives everyone time to relax and let their hair down. Getting away from the stress of everyday life is great, but being off your guard can significantly increase the risk of having an accident.

Most accidents on holiday occur within the first couple of days, and the most common types of injuries are fractures, cuts and sprains. These tend to occur early on in the holiday when you are unfamiliar with the new surroundings. You can reduce your chances of injury or illness by following these seven holiday steps.

1. Equip yourself with a travel first aid kit and medical pack

A travel first aid kit will need to include all the basic bandages and dressings necessary for your trip. A premium Medical Pack will include sterile syringes, needles and cannula sets. Having your own syringes and needles ensures that a high level of hygiene can be achieved if you are admitted to hospital in countries with a lower standard of hygiene than the UK . You could save yourself from a nasty infection.

2. Avoid getting bitten

In the UK , most bites and stings are painful but harmless and only affect the area around the sting. When abroad however, allergic reactions or infections from insect bites can become life-threatening. You should use a reliable insect repellent, and if you are heading for the tropics, check out the need for malaria tablets with your doctor. When abroad, be aware of other stinging and biting animals and insects, such as scorpions, snakes, spiders, and jellyfish. Vinegar is great for jellyfish stings. Carry some sachets (such as the ones in fast food outlets) in your first aid kit.

3. Don’t ignore earache

Ear infections are a really a common problem on holiday. Bacteria picked up while swimming or playing in water seems to be the main cause. They are unbearably painful and could prevent you from flying. The cabin pressure intensifies the pain and can burst an infected ear-drum. Antibiotics work quickly, so the advice is that if you have an earache, get to a doctor sooner rather than later.

4. Watch what you eat

An upset stomach can ruin your holiday. It could be caused by food poisoning or from consuming food and water that has been contaminated by bacteria, parasites or viruses. You could experience vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal pain. Reduce the risk of stomach upset by only drinking bottled (preferably carbonated) water, avoiding shellfish (particularly uncooked varieties such as oysters), avoiding ice cream and ice in drinks, and only eating food that is piping hot.

5. Beware of the sun

A Royal Mail survey found that 38 per cent of us have suffered from extreme sunburn at some time. Those traveling to hot climates from countries such as the UK increase their risk of sunburn because their skin is unused to the sun. Fair skins are also more prone to sunburn. Because sunburn changes the skin’s DNA, it has been linked to skin cancers.

Sun protection is getting more and more effective. The factor you use depends on your skin type (fair skin = higher factor) and also on the area you are visiting, and the altitude. If you are unsure, play it safe with a factor of 25 or over.

6. Drink up!

Not too much alcohol though! If you become dehydrated, you are more likely to become ill. People don’t realize how much water they lose through perspiration at high temperatures. Symptoms include feeling dizzy, light-headed, lethargic and thirsty, followed by rapid heart rate and visibly wrinkled, inelastic skin. Children and the elderly are most at risk.

7. Check out the swimming areas

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents advises not to swim anywhere without being sure in advance that it is safe. This includes lakes, rivers and seas and if nobody is swimming in a certain area, ask why. Do not dive or jump into water unless you are certain that it is deep enough.

Never leave children alone in or near water. Avoid scuba-diving within 24 hours of a flight, and learn the basics in the UK before you go. The British Sub-Aqua Club training is more comprehensive than the internationally recognized Padi course.

The First Aid Warehouse specializes in the supply of first aid equipment and diagnostic products to both the public and trade. They offer an extensive range of products including Travel first aid kits, first aid items, and clinically approved sun care products.

With a wealth of industry knowledge, their online e-commerce platform provides a safe and secure environment to purchase from. They accept all major credit and debit cards and welcome orders from members of the public and health organisations including Primary Care Trusts, Care Homes, Surgeries, schools etc. If you wish to set up a business account, you can contact them either via sales@firstaidwarehouse.co.uk or on 0845 6121217

RESOURCES:

This article was written by Sharon Mason and is brought to you by First Aid Warehouse, UK’s premier supplier of medical equipment, first aid kits , blood pressure monitors , medical plasters , medical furniture, burnshield dressings and stethoscopes . We supply equipment to medical professionals, the care industry and the general public

Wear eye protection for all hazardous activities and sports-at school, home, and on the job. Never assume that any eye injury is harmless. When in doubt, see an eye doctor immediately. 

Bleeding from the eye - Trauma to the eye or head may cause bleeding of the eye. If you suspect that the blood is coming from inside or is collecting in the eye, cover the eyes with a clean cloth and go to the nearest emergency room. Be careful not to put any pressure on the eyeball.

Chemical exposure in the eyes - If you are wearing contact lenses, remove them immediately. Keeping them in your eyes may hold the chemical against the cornea, causing unnecessary damage and pain. If a contact lens cannot be removed and is still in the eye, begin flushing over the lens immediately. If you suspect chemicals have entered the eye, begin flushing them immediately with cool water and continue to do so for approximately 15 minutes. If an eyewash station is available, use it. If not, a garden hose held vertically so the water is flowing straight up is ideal. If a garden hose is not available, eyes can be flushed under the tap in the kitchen or bathroom sink. If clean running water is not available, you may even flush with any clean, cool, non-irritant liquid, like milk etc.

Keep the eyes of victim open at all times. Flushing with eyes of victim closed does not do anything. Always flush both eyes to avoid washing the object or contamination to the unaffected eye. If using a sink tap, have the victim hold his or her head so that the affected eye is lower than the unaffected eye. If there is still irritation or vision loss after flushing the eyes, take the victim to medical treatment.

Object in the eye – If you have an object in your eye, do not irritate your eye by rubbing it. You may try to remove the particle if it is not embedded in the eye. Do not try to remove an object yourself that is embedded in the eye. First, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This will prevent further contamination or infection.

You may try flushing the particle out using cool water for as long as necessary. This can be done in a sink, with an outside hose, or a glass of water that is contaminant-free.

If you can see the object, you may try to remove it with a washcloth. Gently lift the upper or lower eyelid, and use a clean, wet washcloth to wipe the object away. If this does not work, seek immediate medical attention.

Impaled Object in the Eye (Retained Intraocular Foreign Body) – An impaled object in the eye can lead to vision loss and disfigurement. Do not put any pressure on the impaled object or the eyeball. Cover both eyes with a bulky dressing, taking care not to put any pressure on either eye. Remember not to put any pressure on the impaled object. Covering both eyes keeps the injured eye from moving and causing more damage. This injury will require surgery, make sure the victim does not eat or drink anything.

Blows to the Eye – Apply a cold compress immediately for 15 minutes and again each hour as needed to reduce pain and swelling. If there is discoloration or blackening of the eye, it could mean internal damage has occurred. See an eye care physician. The so-called black eye is caused by bleeding beneath the skin around the eye. Sometimes a black eye indicates a more extensive injury, even a skull fracture, particularly if the area around both eyes is bruised (raccoon eyes) or if there has been a head injury. Although most black eye injuries aren’t serious, bleeding within the eye, called a hyphema, is serious and can reduce vision and damage the cornea — the clear, protective “window” at the front of the eye. In some cases, abnormally high pressure inside the eyeball (glaucoma) also can result. Retinal evaluation at 2 weeks should also be arranged.

To take care of a black eye – Using gentle pressure, apply a cold pack or a cloth filled with ice to the area around the eye. Take care not to press on the eye itself. Apply cold as soon as possible after the injury to reduce swelling, and continue using ice or cold packs for 24 to 48 hours.

Be sure there’s no blood within the white and colored parts of the eye. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience vision problems (double vision, blurring), severe pain, or bleeding in the eye or from the nose.

Cuts and Punctures of the Eye – Bandage the eye lightly, and see an eye care physician at once. Do not wash out the eye with water or try to remove an object stuck in the eye.

‘People think ‘why are you going out to help work on an environmental project in America? It’s a powerful country with plenty of resources, and it should be able to be helping itself out’ says Michael, and what he discovered was quite different to other’s expectations.

‘Alaska is a completely different kettle of fish’ he says. ‘They are a different breed up there. There are a lot of pioneers who literally just cut themselves a homestead out of the forest, and laid their claim. Then you’ve got the Native American populations as well, and the Eskimo population. They’re struggling to survive, and the government is trying to take care of them as best they can, so there’s a completely different mindset up there. They look at the rest of the States quite differently, and Alaska attracts free thinking, free willed people, who love the outdoors.’

Prior to his trip, Michael worked with African refugees and their families, assisting them with immigration in London, England.

‘I needed to take a bit of time out’ he says, ‘So instead of the main focus being on people all the time, it was to shift that focus, and do something that was more towards the environment’.

Alaska gave Michael the adventure he was looking for, as well as the opportunity to make a real difference to the community and the landscape.

Michael took part in an environmental program, studying the Kenai Peninsula Water Sheds in Sodoltna, the hub of the Kenai Peninsula which is located just south of Anchorage, Alaska. His trip was facilitated by the Global Volunteer Network, an organization that helps connect international volunteers with communities in need.

Michael was involved in research work for the Kenai water shed forum, a non-for-profit organization that is working to protect the water shed. The team investigates its fragile eco-system, how it works, what benefit it gives to the Kenai Peninsula, and the impact of man on the area.

‘I was taking water flow measurements and surveying water flow measurements sites, and that was to contribute to understanding how all the tributaries around the area contributed to the water flow volumes in the Kenai river’ explains Michael.

He was also involved with a fresh water invertebrate nutrients study, to aid a professor at the University of Alaska.

‘I was one of the key contributors to the marine nutrients study…which helps, because when you are out in the field, that river is mighty cold and you are just picking up rock after rock after rock till your hands go numb, collecting these specimens. It’s pretty tough work, but it was rewarding. You’ve got something to show for at the end of it.’

The Kenai Peninsula is about 90% Wilderness containing many beautiful mountains, streams and lakes. It borders the Kenai National Wildlife Refuge and neighbors many other state parks.

‘I’d always had a fascination with Alaska’ says Michael. ‘It’s a last frontier kind of wilderness.’

It was in this unique wilderness, home to a large amount of wildlife, including moose, caribou, wolves, bald eagles, and the infamous brown and black bears, that really opened up the eyes of New Zealand born Michael.

‘The hardest thing was being comfortable in the natural environment, because you were constantly aware of the natural predators within the surrounding areas. When I was there three people had been mauled by bears, and one of the maulings had happened in a built up area. It was something that was always in the back of your mind’.

One experience of Michael’s that was particularly eye-opening, not to mention terrifying, took place on a wildlife trail.

‘After work one night, I went for a hike up a skyline trail. I was stationed in Soldotna, and this was about an hour and a half’s drive to get there. I got to the trail and walked up it and by the time I got to the top, which was a huge hike, the sun was starting to come down, and was starting to set. Although it was quite bright up on the top of the hill, by the time I started to come back through the forest, it was dark, and I couldn’t really see. There had been a mauling on this trail, it’s a bear trail. You could see the droppings when you are going up, and the paw-prints. Coming down, I’d never been that scared in my life, I was seriously freaked out. I was just squeezing (a water) bottle to make clicking sounds, making as much noise as I could to warn them I was coming down the trail. I kept loosing my foot grip, because I couldn’t really see the roots…I eventually got to the bottom to the road, and I was just literally sweating so profusely. It was almost as if I’d just jumped in a swimming pool fully clothed, not only because it was physically hard, but because the adrenaline was pumping.’

Despite his scare, Michael remains grateful the time he had amongst the Alaskan wilderness.

‘The work that I was doing meant that I was wading in a river, canoeing down a river, or going through a forest. Sitting on the bank of a stream taking measurements, it was so focused on being out there in nature. It was such a contrast to what I was normally doing, that it kind of re-aliened something inside that probably hasn’t been stimulated for a while. I think that is probably the greatest thing, that re-invigoration, reminding you what was important, and what kind of work that we need to do back here in New Zealand. Gaining the experiences I got there, giving me some skills that I could use to benefit my home country as well.’

Michael particularly enjoyed the company of the other volunteers.

‘The people (involved in the program) came from all different backgrounds, and were just really dedicated to one cause. It’s quite neat to be in that kind of environment, where everyone is focused, and passionate about something, and where the end goal is ultimately beneficial to everybody in the surrounding community, if not Alaska. It’s pretty exciting.’

He also saw the benefits of volunteering to work in the community, as opposed to doing the tourist thing, and is keen to encourage others to volunteer.

‘You get to integrate within that environment that you are living in, amongst that society. You get to make friends and develop relationships with the people, learn about how they live, and learn about how they work as well. You basically get a view of every key aspect of society through volunteering. Not to mention the actual skills that you take on as well.’

‘There is also the feel good factor of having spent some time somewhere, and given something back to a place you’ve been to rather than just coming through and paying money for tourism merchandise, which doesn’t go into the pockets of those who really need it, or benefit the community.’

The only thing you may need to prepare for on your Alaska volunteering adventure are some personal grooming adjustments.

‘If you are a guy, you have to grow a beard’, laughs Michael. ‘All the guys over there have got beards, so it’s what you’ve got to do’.

For more information on volunteering check out: http://www.volunteer.org.nz/

For more great articles on volunteering check out: http://globalvolunteernetwork.blogspot.com/

© 2000-2007 Global Volunteer Network

When planning a trip into the wilderness, whether it be for camping, fishing or hunting there are some survival essentials that you must take with you.

Shelter

We will start with your shelter. This is one of the obvious survival essentials. Although some people do not mind sleeping under the stars, having shelter from the elements can make or break your trip.

There are many different types and sizes of tents on the market. Determine how many people will be sharing your tent before your trip and whether or not you will need a second tent to store your gear. If you do not want to bring another tent, bring a tarp (if you have room) to cover your supplies to keep them dry.

Secondly, a sleeping bag that is designed for the climate is another of the survival essentials. All sleeping bags should have a label that indicates the temperature rating of the bag. However, they are not always accurate. This is one item that you should not go cheap on; you usually get what you pay for in a sleeping bag.

Food and Water

You should always bring enough food; this may seem like an obvious survival essential and it is. When planning your trip, it is very important to plan your meals. This way you should be sure of taking enough food and not taking too much with you, especially if you are hiking or portaging.

Since water is heavy to carry, take a water filter and pump or iodine tablets if there will be water where you are going. If water is going to be scarce on your trip then one of your survival essentials will be taking enough water with you for everyone in the group. I hope that you will have a pack mule or something to carry it all!

Make sure you have a variety of healthy food with you so that you are not deficient in some vital nutrients. You can expend a lot of energy while outdoors and you need to replenish your strength each day.

Tools

A sharp hunting knife is another of the survival essentials. No camper should venture into the wilderness without one. It is used as a tool and a weapon of protection if needed.

An implement for cutting wood is also an important tool. Check out the local camping supply stores for some very handy folding saws. A small hatchet can be very helpful as well.

I usually carry a good multi tool as well. This can be clipped on your belt along with the knife. With the advances in technology, you have other resources readily available these days, including a GPS and satellite telephone.

Backpack

A good waterproof pack would be an important piece of equipment, but would it be a survival essential? Not necessarily, a pack will not save your life, but it will keep your gear from getting wet and it is much easier to carry everything as well.

Fire

At one time, waterproof matches were considered one of the survival essentials. However, not so much anymore. With the advent of fire paste and other fire starters, matches are becoming obsolete. I have had waterproof matches get wet and become useless. Even carrying a small lighter is a good idea. There are ways to start a fire without some fire starter of some kind, but it can be difficult without experience.

First Aid Kit

Having a stocked first aid kit is another of the important survival essentials. Before leaving on your trip, check your kit to make sure it is not out of anything. Some important components of the kit should be band-aids, antiseptic, gauze, tweezers, bug bite cream or spray and other items that may be needed for the area you are traveling in such as snakebite kits etc. Also, included should be painkillers such as Tylenol for example. If anyone in your group requires specific medication then they are responsible for bringing it with them.

Planning

Planning the trip is one of the most important aspects of the survival essentials. Your route should be mapped clearly. You should have more than one map with you. In addition, you must provide your trip plans to friends or family who are not going with you. People need to know when to expect you back and where to look for you if you are not back on time. Alert the local authorities or park Warden to your trip plan as well. In addition, stick to your plan; do not decide to change it when you have already begun the trip. Search and Rescue can be quite expensive!

Wilderness trips can be a lot of fun if planned properly. Never take a trip without the survival essentials.

You could probably just buy a commercial survival hiking pack but if you want to bring a pack that caters to your own specific needs, consider putting together one yourself.  Here’s how:

Have enough water to keep you hydrated

Human beings can survive for some time without food but going without water for extended periods of time can be lethal.  Probably the most important component of your survival hiking pack is your supply of water.  Ideally, you should keep a gallon for every day you are out.  Carry as much as you can.  Before you run out, be sure to find an alternative source in the area where you are.  That way, you will never have to suffer from the effects of dehydration.

Bring sufficient supply of food

Bring enough food that will allow you to survive for at least three days.  While that may seem too much, the extra food will serve you well in case you get stranded or lost.  Some of the best choices you might want to include in your survival hiking pack are:

-    Instant coffee or chocolate

-    Juice or pre-mixed drinks, especially those that contain vitamins and sugar

-    Energy bars

-    Dried foods

-    Packed meals

-    Small canned goods

When putting together a survival hiking pack, consider function over taste.  The food must be easy to store, won’t spoil easily, convenient to eat and provide enough nutrition to help you survive. 

Make sure your first aid kit is complete

A basic first aid kit is another important component of your survival hiking pack.  It should contain medications and supplies to treat, disinfect and protect wounds, abrasions, cuts and insect bites.  It should also contain medications such as antiseptics, anti-histamines, antibiotics and repellants against insects.

Bring only the basic gear and equipment

There are dozens of gears you can bring but there only a few basic ones can ensure your survival.  These include:

A survival knife

A knife is important for cutting, slicing and piercing.  Pack a knife with you, preferably one that has multiple uses. 

Mirror

Always bring a small compact mirror if you’re going for long travels.  Mirrors can be used to signal for help and attract the attention of rescuers.

Whistle

A whistle will help bring attention to you and can be especially helpful if you’re stranded or injured.

Water container

A small tin or metal coffee cup has multiple uses, not just for making coffee.  You can also use it to collect and boil water and to cook and store food.  For a multi-purpose material, you can bring aluminum foil instead.  It’s light, can be heated or frozen and folds easily to pack.

Shelter and bedding

Bring a small tent, a light emergency blanket and a foldable canvas, nylon or plastic sheet you can use as bedding.  The plastic sheet will also be helpful for keeping the contents of your survival hiking pack clean and dry.

A good thing to remember when putting together your own survival hiking pack is customization.  Put together a pack that contains things you will find useful and leave behind those that you don’t need or don’t know how to use.  Remember that what you’re bringing with you is for your own survival, so keep that in mind.

Camping with your pet brings the whole family together to enjoy the experience instead of leaving the four-footed member of the family behind to worry about.

It’s no fun to be cooped up in a kennel for a weekend or longer when the rest of the family is out having a good time. If your pet is physically able, well behaved and eager to go, wouldn’t it be nice to take him along for the trip?

Just as you would pack what items to bring along for you, don’t overlook what your pet may need to keep him comfortable too. Being prepared with the right essentials and equipment is the key to ensure a happy time on the road and in the woods. Keep in mind also of when and where you plan to camp. The time of year and geographical location of your campsite can make a big difference in how and what you prepare for your camping trip. Know what the weather conditions are likely to be and pack accordingly.

Consider these tips to make your camping experience with your pet more enjoyable:

* Check out the campgrounds, parks or wherever you plan to visit well in advance to make sure they accept pet campers. You can search Pet-Friendly Attractions on PetTravelCenter.com for these.

* Find out what types of facilities they have on site, such as dog runs, off-leash areas, drinking water, etc.

* Do they allow off-leash pets on nearby hiking trails?

*Is there a size restriction or a limit in the number of pets you can bring along?

Don’t forget about your pet’s safety in getting him to your destination either.

* Invest in a vehicle pet harness, seat belt or car seat (for smaller pets) to protect him (and you) in case you have to make a sudden stop or become involved in an accident. Unrestrained pets become deadly projectiles to other passengers. For example, did you know that an unsecured, 25-pound dog in a 40 mph crash becomes a 1,000-pound mass (half a ton) flying uncontrollably inside the vehicle?

* Never attach a restraining device to the pet’s collar inside a vehicle that could choke him or break his neck in a collision. A harness will help to prevent injury.

As you plan your trip, here are some items for your pet that may help make his (and your) camping experience more enjoyable:

* Pet tent and bedding. Who doesn’t like his own digs? A small, easily assembled pet tent gives everyone a better night’s sleep. A pet travel bed or cot keeps your pet off the ground and away from crawling bugs.

* Pet first-aid kit. An essential item to pack and should contain such things as antiseptic cream, assorted bandages, tweezers, eye drops, gauge, tape, and the like. Know what items are in your kit and how to use them. Phone numbers for your pet’s vet, the National Animal Poison Control Center hotline (888-426-4435), and emergency pet hospitals in the areas where you plan to travel should be taken along. Visit Emergency Tips at PetTravelCenter.com for more information.

* Travel tag. A travel tag on a pet’s collar or harness will help someone locate you locally should you and your pet become separated. The travel tag should contain information about where you are staying locally (while away from home), including addresses and phone numbers. A cell phone number is also a good idea since nowadays most people have one with them when they travel anywhere. Be sure to pack an updated photo of your pet that will also help identify him to others.

* Treats, food and water. Pack the appropriate amount of food and water for your pet (and you!). New innovations in pet travel products make it easy to take along portable or collapsible food and water bowls, pet backpacks that even have their own water supply.

Here are a few other essentials that you should consider for your pet:

* Protective dog shoes. For hiking in rough terrain or to protect from ice forming between toes in cold weather.

* Toys. A familiar chew toy is like a baby blanket and reinforcement to your pet. You may want to include two or three for a little variety or in case one becomes lost or your pet decides to hide one.

* Grooming supplies. Burs, beggar’s lice, hound’s-tongue… there are lots of names for all of those hijackers that get on pets and one’s clothing while in the woods. It’s advisable to have the right kind of brush to get those pesky things off your pet’s coat. Additionally, in case your pet gets into something he shouldn’t that may require a bath, some pet shampoo with you may do the trick. Pack some extra towels for drying or wiping muddy feet.

* Leash and harness. You should always have a means of controlling your pet when you travel. Some animals get very anxious when they’re in new territory and can become scared and run away or excited and want to explore. Be courteous of others in the campground, park or on the trail so they are not unnerved by a pet on the loose. Remember to check the leash regulations where you plan to romp with your pet before setting out. Wildlife such as snakes, skunks, porcupines, raccoons, bears, mountain lions, and coyotes can be a problem with a pet on the loose and can cause serious injury. Make sure your pet stays in close proximity to where you are hiking.

* Flea and tick repellant. Some products last several weeks to kill adult fleas (and larvae), ticks and mosquitoes. Consider treating your pet, according to the manufacturer’s directions, to make his camping experience more enjoyable.