Marine first aid kits are essential tools on board ships to provide immediate medical assistance for injuries or medical emergencies that may occur while at sea. Whether navigating coastal waters or venturing far offshore, having a well-equipped marine first aid kit is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of everyone on board. Let’s discuss more why you should stow away a kit in your Stacer Ocean Ranger or whatever type of boat you have:

Importance of Marine First Aid Kits

It’s common knowledge that anyone who is aboard any water vessel should make safety their utmost priority. Marine first aid kits are the first line of defence or protection when managing injuries, illnesses, or accidents that may occur while waiting for medical help to come. Common injuries or illnesses that could happen on a boat are cuts, abrasions, sprains, fractures, burns, bumps to the body, seasickness and in rare cases, concussion, man overboard or hypothermia.

These first aid kits contain a variety of supplies to address different medical needs. These kits often include the following:

• Bandages/dressings/antiseptic wipes/adhesive tape
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Sterile gloves
• Splints
• CPR masks
• Cold packs
• Basic medications such as pain relievers, seasickness remedies, and antihistamines.
• Kits may also include emergency blankets, a marine distress flag, or a signalling mirror.

It is crucial to ensure that the vessel is equipped with a complete first aid kit. However, it is equally important to have crew members who are trained in basic first aid and CPR. It is crucial to familiarize everyone on board with the contents of the kit and how to use them through proper training or drills.

Due to the marine environment's exposure to water, marine first aid kits are typically stored in waterproof, durable containers or cases that keep contents dry and protected from moisture. This is done to avoid mildew or moulds from growing inside the kit. Once the kit is infested with these fungi, you have to throw them out as they can be harmful to one’s health. Place the first aid kit in an easily accessible, well-marked location. Make sure to inform everyone on board where you place them. The ideal location should be where it’s easily reachable in case of an emergency, yet protected from water exposure and damage.

Don’t forget to inspect the first aid kit regularly and replace any used items. Take note of the expiry dates of each item to ensure you’re not taking any expired medicine. While it may not be harmful to take expired medicine accidentally, they are no longer effective and it’s futile to take them.

In addition to having a first aid kit, it is important to create an emergency response plan and equip your vessel with reliable communication devices, such as a VHF radio or satellite phone. You can purchase these gadgets in your local marine shops.

In severe medical emergencies, seek immediate professional medical assistance or contact the nearest Coast Guard station for guidance. Make sure that all crew members are familiar with the procedures to follow in the event of a medical emergency, and know how to seek assistance from authorities. The first aid kit serves as an initial response, but professional medical intervention may be necessary.

By adhering to these practices and having a well-prepared first aid kit, boaters can navigate the waters with greater confidence, knowing they are equipped to handle unforeseen medical situations and ensure the well-being of everyone on board.