A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for blue-water sailing, where you’re far from immediate medical assistance. Here’s a comprehensive list of items to include in a blue water first aid kit:

Basic Supplies:

1. Adhesive Bandages: Various sizes for minor cuts and blisters.
2. Sterile Gauze Pads: For covering wounds and absorbing blood.
3. Adhesive Tape: To secure gauze pads and bandages.
4. Antiseptic Wipes: For cleaning wounds.
5. Antibiotic Ointment: To prevent infection in cuts and abrasions.
6. Burn Cream: For treating minor burns.
7. Hydrocortisone Cream: For reducing inflammation and itching.
8. Tweezers: For removing splinters or debris.
9. Scissors: To cut tape, gauze, or clothing.
10. Thermometer: For measuring body temperature.
11. Instant Cold Packs: For reducing swelling or pain.
12. Elastic Bandage: For sprains and strains.

Medications:

1. Pain Relievers: Such as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
2. Anti-nausea Medication: For motion sickness.
3. Anti-diarrheal Medication: Like loperamide (Imodium).
4. Antihistamines: For allergic reactions.
5. Antiseptic Solution: Like iodine or hydrogen peroxide.
6. Cough and Cold Medication: If appropriate for the crew.

Specialised Supplies:

1. Sea Sickness Tablets: Specifically designed for motion sickness.
2. Burn Dressing: For more severe burn injuries.
3. Eye Wash: For flushing out debris or chemicals from the eyes.
4. Sterile Needle and Thread: For stitching wounds if necessary.
5. First Aid Manual: A comprehensive guide to treating injuries and illnesses.
6. Emergency Blanket: For shock or hypothermia.
7. Splint: For immobilising broken bones or sprains.
8. Medical Tape: For securing bandages or gauze.
9. CPR Mask: A one-way valve is used to perform CPR safely.

Additional Considerations:

1. Prescription Medications: Include any necessary prescription medications for the crew.
2. Personal Health Needs: Include any special items for chronic conditions or personal health requirements.
3. Suture Practice Kit: Consider including a “Suture Practice Kit“. These are sold as practice kits for legal reasons only and are fully functional. Alternatively, consider (medical) superglue for lacerations or an Emergency Laceration Kit.
4. Defibrillator: Consider adding a defibrillator to your kit. The average age of yachties is right up there, so if not for you, consider other sailors around you.

Storage and Maintenance:

• Keep the Kit Dry and Accessible: Store the first aid kit in a waterproof container that is easily accessible.
• Regularly Check and Replenish: Check the kit to replace used items and expired medications.

A well-prepared first aid kit is a crucial part of your safety equipment on long voyages. It’s equally important that all crew members are familiar with the kit, know where it is stored, and understand how to use its contents. (Read more about the crew safety brief). This knowledge can make a significant difference in managing medical emergencies at sea.