• Carry only first aid equipment that you know how to use.

• Carry only the first aid equipment that you may possibly need.

• Update your first aid kit on a regular basis.

• Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked and you have everything you need before you leave on a trip.

• Do not overwork yourself while out in the wilderness.

• The best use of first aid is prevention. Do all that you can to prevent injuries from happening.

This picture illustrates a hot spot, the beginning of a blister, being taken care of before it can get any worse. Tincture benzoine is applied, then the moleskin is placed over the tincture benzoine covering the hot spot. This is a great prevention technique for blisters.

This picture shows what happens when you do not take preventive measures against insects, primarily mosquitos. You should always carry insect repellent with you, regardless of whether you think you will need it or not. If you find yourself in an area with a multitude of bugs, apply enough repellent to keep the insects from biting you.