bsman:
Our part has 3 medical professionals, so we take a few things others might not.

Prescription antibiotics just in case. Be sure everyone in your party is not allergic to any antibiotic if you choose to take some. Also, be sure to carry a copy of the actual prescription, especially if you go into Canada. Rockhead also carries antiparasite (giardia) drugs, but I don't know the name.

Lomodil or other bad belly medicine and something for diarrhea in case some bad water slips thru.

Antiseptic/antibiotic creams for blisters or simple cuts. It can be nice to have a few gauze pads for scrapes and brushburns. Duct tape works quite well to hold the bandage and keep water out. Some thick felt or corn pads do nicely for making doughnuts that take pressure off blisters and cut feet. I usually carry a small pair of sewing scissors in case of really bad blisters that must be opened and packed to heal quickly.

Solarcaine for any local anesthesia needs as well as sunburn.

4" Ace bandage for bad ankles from portaging.

Ibuprofen is our favorite pain remedy. Anbusol for dental pain (I've lost fillings out there and was glad we had some along).

We've been known to carry Lidocaine and suture material, but we gave that up since we never used it.

Survival stuff isn't usually an issue unless you're solo in really back-country. Your party members should know where each are going if you split up to fish or explore. Agree on a meeting place and time (i.e. sundown if you don't all carry a watch). Your partners can "search" if you're not all there at the right time and place if they know where you were going.

Posted by Skip Guyer on March 24, 2000 at 02:23