Our Marine and Outdoor Nano first aid kit has an IPX5 waterproof rating and an IPX6 dust proof rating to keep you first aid supplies safe and resistant from water, dirt and debris.The Nano plastic case is made of polycarbonate and ABS plastic and has rubber impact bumpers which helps to protect the case from opening or breaking if it is dropped. Powerclaw latches keeps the case closed even during jostling. Rubber interior webbing helps keep your supplies secure and in place. 

We've packed this outdoor first aid kit with plenty of quality first aid supplies including bandages, medications, ivy wipes, bug bite wipes, liquid bandage and moleskin. Contains over 65 pieces of first aid supplies to treat minor emergencies when on the trail, in the water or on the road. 

Our easy to use refill system makes it easier for you to refill your first aid kit anytime. Just scan the QR code on the back and reorder the supplies you need to replace in the kit. You can also order a complete refill pack for easier ordering and refilling. 

Great first aid kit for outdoor enthusiasts who want to be prepared in the event of an injury or emergency. Lightweight and easy to carry, secure to your wrist, backpack or belt.

Clear plastic case with black rubber corners and internal webbing. Dimensions are 7.5 x 5.1 x 2.6 inches.
 

This is part 2 of "5 Outdoor Health Tips To Remember".  As we spend time outdoors, we wanted to highlight several important tips to help you enjoy the outdoor experience.  In part 1, we talked about heat and sun-related illnesses.  This article will cover the last 3 outdoor health and safety tips which include summer allergies, insects, and poisonous plants.  The reality is that any one of these can ruin our fun and potentially send us indoors or even worse, to the hospital.   Let's take a closer look at how we can treat and prevent these potentially dangerous hazards.

#3 - Summer Allergies

Plants & Pollen - Weeds, grass, and other plants are very active with pollen during the summer.  Most allergies can be combated by taking counter-allergy medicine. For itchiness and hives, a common product like Benadryl might help. For those who are sensitive to plants and pollen, avoid areas of overgrown plants if at all possible.

Dust allergies - People with dust allergies will have an increase in symptoms due to time spent outdoors. Summer construction and the increase in humidity can increase dust activity as well. Similar to those allergic to pollen, dust allergy sufferers may require medication to stop the symptoms. Severe cases may require a doctor's diagnosis and treatment. Beyond taking medication, keeping the home clean and minimizing in-home humidity can help.

Allergies due to insect bites - Insect bites are always a common occurrence during the summer due to the increase in bug activity.  Bug bites can be eased by an allergy cream or an insect wipe to help relieve the pain or itchiness.  Insect activity is at its highest during the summer months. Avoiding insects is near impossible, however, using repellent and staying covered up can help prevent insect bites from happening.

#4 - Insects

Mosquitoes - These pesky insects are generally found in areas of tall grass or brush or areas of standing water.  When mosquitoes bite, they leave itchy red bumps. Using an allergy cream or an insect wipe can help with itchiness and pain.  Using a mosquito repellant can help in keeping them away before they bite. Another good way to keep mosquitoes at bay is to spray areas of activity such as the backyard with an insect repellent as well.

Bees - Bees can live just about anywhere, but they most often are found in wooded areas or near homes and parks.  Bee stings hurt and if you're allergic, they can be dangerous. If allergic to bees, avoidance is the best policy. If a bee sting occurs using a sting wipe may help. If it's a severe reaction seek medical help immediately.  Those with known severe reactions should always keep an EpiPen® close by.  Bee hives and nests should be avoided until a professional can rid the area. Sprays can be used as an effective deterrent as well. 

Ticks - Ticks are generally found in tall grasses and wooded areas. They sometimes attach themselves to animals so it's best to be aware of your pets when they come in from outdoors. Ticks can be avoided using a bug spray or wipes. If a tick attaches to the skin it should be carefully removed using tweezers making sure to get all of the bug.   Just like bees and mosquitoes, ticks can be dealt with using repellents. When outdoors keeping covered up as much as possible can limit tick activity. See our helpful article about Ticks & Lyme disease here.

#5 - Summer Plants

Poison Ivy - Poison ivy is a plant that is known for its three leaves and can be found in wooded areas and among other wild plants.  If there is contact with poison ivy, wash the entire affected area with soap and warm water as soon as possible. There are also products designed to protect and neutralize the oils that cause this severe irritation.  If contracted, special washing solutions can help as well.  Make sure to wash all clothing worn as well.  Avoid uncertain plants and cover up when spending time in wooded areas. 

Poison Oak - According to healthline.com “Poison oak rash is an allergic reaction to the leaves or stems of the western poison oak plant. The plant looks like a leafy shrub and can grow up to six feet tall. In shady areas, the plant can grow like a climbing vine.”  When treating poison oak, follow the steps taken in treating poison ivy.  Just like poison ivy, the best prevention is avoidance. Covering exposed skin and using a pre-contact ivy product such as Ivy X Pre-Contact Poison Oak & Ivy wipes will also help avoid contracting a severe rash or blisters.

Enjoying outdoor activities doesn't have to be a hazard.  Remember these 5 outdoor health and safety tips and have fun.  If this article has been helpful, why not share it with your friends on your favorite social media platform?  

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Did you know that nearly half of all Americans participate in outdoor activities every year? We love to be outdoors!  Walking, boating, hiking, camping, and other fun activities are great ways to experience nature and get some physical exercise but they can also create health concerns. This 2-part article will highlight 5 outdoor health and safety tips.  Knowing what they are, how to treat them, and even how we can prevent them will help us stay healthy and safe while enjoying our outdoor experience.  Part 2 can be found here. 

#1 - Heat-related illness

Dehydration - If we're outdoors we are usually active.  When it's warm, our body experiences fluid loss.  Dehydration occurs when water intake is not enough to replace free water lost due to normal activities.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dehydration. The best way to combat dehydration is to drink plenty of fluids and take periodic rest breaks.  Loss of water also means loss of critical minerals from your system including potassium and sodium.  Common electrolyte replacement tablets and drinks help replace these lost minerals during heavy sweating.  It's important to drink plenty of fluids before times of physical activity. Being hydrated before the physical activity begins can help prevent dehydration before it starts.

Heat Exhaustion - The Mayo Clinic defines heat exhaustion as “ a condition whose symptoms may include heavy sweating and a rapid pulse, a result of your body overheating.”  If you experience any of these symptoms, drink plenty of fluids, remove any unnecessary clothing, cool down using an ice pack, or take a cold shower or bath.  Just like dehydration, heat exhaustion can be prevented by drinking plenty of fluids before the activity begins. In addition to staying hydrated, it is important to limit physical activity during the day when the temperature is at its hottest.

Heat Stroke - The Oxford Dictionary defines heat stroke as “a condition marked by fever and often by unconsciousness, caused by failure of the body's temperature-regulating mechanism when exposed to excessively high temperatures.” Heat stroke is the most severe of the three heat-related illnesses. It is most likely to occur as a result of dehydration and heat exhaustion. If symptoms of heat stroke are present, it is best to seek medical help immediately. While waiting for help, go to a cool area and get fluids as soon as possible. Cold packs or cold compresses can help as well.  

Heat-related illnesses occur when someone spends too much time in the heat. It is very important to drink lots of fluids and to take frequent breaks to maintain a regulated body temperature.

#2 - Sun related illness

Sunburn - The Mayo Clinic defines sunburn as "red, painful skin that feels hot to the touch — usually appears within a few hours after too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunshine.”  Sunburn can be treated initially with a cold pack or cold compress to ease the initial symptoms and then a water-based gel for burns can be applied to help soothe the skin and heal the irritation.  The best prevention for sunburn is to limit time spent in the sun, cover-up, and use sunscreen to prevent sunburn.   
 

Sun Poisoning - This is usually a burn from ultraviolet (UV) radiation that inflames your skin.  In reality, it is a severe case of sunburn.  Similar treatments to that of a sunburn can be applied. Because sun poisoning is more severe, getting plenty of fluids along with taking a pain reliever may be in order.  Much like a regular sunburn; the best prevention is to avoid the sun. When outside cover the skin as much as possible. On areas that remain exposed using sunblock to protect the skin is very important. 

Keep reading part 2 of "5 Outdoor Health & Safety Tips where we highlight summer allergies, insects, and poisonous plants. 

 

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How To Make a First Aid Kit for Camping  
Essential First Aid Kit Supply List

Hiking, camping, and water recreation are just a few of the outdoor activities we love. We benefit from physical exercise and seeing nature's beauty firsthand. It is fun and rewarding but there are risks. Weather and temperature concerns, injury preparedness, and basic survival preparation are important factors everyone should consider as they venture away from home. Let's take a moment to look at these outdoor hiking and exploring safety tips to get your summer off in the right direction:

Temperature Concerns
Leaving home and venturing into the great outdoors means no more temperature-controlled shelter. The weather can influence your health. Physical exercise or simply being exposed to the elements can become dangerous if we are not prepared. Here are several weather and temperature concerns you should consider on your next outdoor hiking and exploring trek.

Hot Temperatures - Warm weather will cause us to sweat. This is a normal process our bodies use to help keep us cool. Be sure to stay hydrated and bring water and electrolyte replenishments. Be prepared to recognize symptoms of heat stroke and how to respond. 

Cold Temperatures - Hypothermia is life-threatening. Be sure to bring extra clothes to layer as temperatures go up and down. If you get wet, those extra clothes you brought along will help keep you warm and dry. If temperatures go way down, you may need to seek shelter. Include an emergency-type blanket in your first aid kit in case you need to warm your body. The foil-type mylar blanket will help keep you warm.

Sun protection
Everyone knows how important it is to protect your skin from the sun's damaging ultraviolet A and B rays.

Sunscreen - Proper sunscreen protection is critical to reduce your risk of radiation burns from the sun. Use sunscreen that is rated 15 or higher 20 minutes before exposure to the sun. Clothing - Dark clothing offers more protection for the covered skin. The tighter the weave, the more protection from the sun you will get.

Eye Protection - Reflective light from the sun can have harmful effects on your skin and eyes. Wear UV-rated sunscreen for added protection. We wrote a great article that

Injury Preparedness 
You don't have to be away from home to get hurt but when you do, a well-equipped first aid kit is a must.

Bring a well-equipped first aid kit - Our best outdoor hiking and exploring safety tip is to bring supplies appropriate to the types of injury risks. For example, if you are going backpacking, consider including Benadryl, sting relief wipes, bandages for cuts and scrapes, burn gel for campfire burns or bad sunburn, and all of the other basic first aid supplies you would normally keep.

Make your own first aid kit - There is an online tool that allows you to make your own custom kit. It is easy to use. Simply pick your container, select the supplies and they ship you what you ordered. You can even save your custom kit for fast and easy reordering when you need to update your first aid supplies! Take a look at "Make-A-Kit Here". 

Let others know where you will be - Be sure to have a way to communicate and call for help if necessary and always tell someone close to you where you will be adventuring so you can be located in case of an emergency.

Survival 
Most won't be doing any extreme outdoor hiking and exploring but it is important to be prepared for an unexpected survival situation. 

Basic survival supplies - Food, water, light, communication, shelter, and warmth are all elements to consider when you might be stranded. There are basic survival kits prepared as grab-and-go or adventuring-type kits. If for some reason you get stranded, these supplies could save your life. Consider your risks and plan appropriately.

Enjoy nature's beauty this summer as you have fun outdoor hiking and exploring. With a little preparation, you can protect yourself from the unexpected.

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Summer activities are ramping up and all of us here at MFASCO Health & Safety want you to be prepared for every adventure.  That is why we have created some helpful articles and videos that will educate, inform, and remind all of us about some of the potential health and safety concerns you should prepare for this summer including:  

The most common summer camp injuries

Protecting children from heat-related illnesses

Best practices and tools for enforcing pool safety

How to clean up bodily fluids from pool surfaces

Take a look at a few of these common search topics.  You will see both products and helpful articles displayed in these results:


 

• Summer
• Heat
• Outdoor
• Camping

Use our main search found above the site navigation to search for content yourself.

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Summer is a time to enjoy outdoor activities.  Swimming, playing sports, fishing, camping, hiking, and many others are at the top of our list. While some people may not like the heat, millions of Americans would gladly sweat if they could only avoid the itching, sneezing, and coughing caused by allergic reactions. Those who suffer from itchy eyes, runny nose, and scratchy throat all have something in common, "Allergic Rhinitis".   According to WebMD, Rhinitis is caused by allergens like pollen.  When they are inhaled, they cause the above symptoms and more. There is good news for those who are affected.  Take a look at these 4 tips that can help reduce your suffering and allow you to spend more time outdoors enjoying the fun in the sun. 
 

Limit exposure to pollen in and around your home 

One of the biggest offenders of allergy sufferers is Pollen, mold, or other allergens that we are exposed to when we walk outside. Did you know that some plants don't release pollen? If you have a garden, choose your plants wisely, selecting geraniums, daises, or even irises. These plants don't have pollen. Grass is another tough one. Most of us have grass that needs to be cut. Pollen and mold are disturbed and thrown into the air when cutting the lawn so wear a mask or get someone else to cut the grass for you. 

Finding the right time to be outside 

It can make all the difference in the world. The time of day will determine how many allergens are in the air. Watch the allergy reports and you will see that pollen counts are lower in the morning and evening hours. It is no coincidence that the winds are lower during those times too. Windy days usually mean higher pollen counts. Days that are cool and rainy usually have lower counts. Not only is the time of day important, but know your seasons.  For example, if you are allergic to cottonwood trees,  you might want to avoid spending time outside during the 2 week period they shed their seeds.  So, knowing what you're allergic to can help you avoid going outside at certain times of the year.

Wearing the right clothes can protect and provide added relief 

Regardless of your outdoor activity, protecting your skin from exposure to allergens can help reduce exposure and symptoms. Yes, protecting your skin and eyes does help.  Sunglasses will reduce allergens from being collected through your eyes. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants will help reduce exposure to the skin. Did you know there are specially designed garments made to protect your skin and allow you to breathe?  Take a look at some of the popular sport fishing clothing available to learn how lightweight and comfortable long-sleeve shirts really are.

After you have been exposed 

Dr. Hansa Bhargava recommends changing clothes and showering after you have been exposed to allergens. For example, ragweed pollen can attach to your clothes, hair, or skin while outdoors. Coming inside might help but you are still potentially carrying the pollen with you. Getting out of those clothes and showering will remove the allergen from your skin and provide added relief. The sooner you do this, the quicker the relief will be. 

When all else fails, take an over-the-counter antihistamine allergy medicine. This medication will provide temporary relief from itchy, watery eyes. It can also help the runny nose and scratchy throat caused by drainage.  If you know you are allergic, and plan to spend time being exposed to pollen or other allergens, you may want to consider taking the medicine before you go out.  As always, consult with your physician before taking any medications.

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Whether you're the leader of a Girl Scouts troop, about to begin all of those outdoor summer activities, or you're a camp counselor, responsible for dozens of kids while embarking on woodland adventures, you'll undoubtedly run into a few runny noses and sore throats. More than likely, these hay fever symptoms will stem from summer allergies, which are very common ailments. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, the sensitization rates for one or more common allergens in school-aged children are reaching between 40 and 50 percent. The high prevalence among kids puts allergy relief at the forefront of summer defenses, so find out how you can be prepared:

Seasonal allergies 

 According to the National Institutes of Health, allergic reactions occur when your body's immune system tries to defend itself against something that's not dangerous, such as pollen or mold. These reactions take the form of cold-like symptoms, including nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and itchy eyes. While these manifestations of allergies are minor, having something like a chronic cold can make the summer months miserable. Plus, avoiding allergy treatment can make symptoms worse and lead to more serious illnesses.

Therefore, it is crucial to take proper precautions against hay fever to have a safe, enjoyable summer. While there's no avoiding the pollen levels in the air, you can help kids fight the allergic reaction symptoms. Make sure kids who struggle with hay fever take a daily allergy pill that provides 24-hour relief. The antihistamine Benadryl is another option for combating hay fever, and it's especially beneficial for nighttime relief.

Bug bites 

 It's no secret that mosquitos love warm, humid weather - that's why they make such a widespread appearance during the hot summer months. If you're taking the kids out for a woodsy adventure or you'll be spending plenty of time around the campfire, then you'll likely run into these not-so-friendly insects. Most people are sensitive to their bites, and the allergic reaction involves itching, irritation, and small red bumps. Make sure you have a Benadryl Itch Relief Stick with you to help relieve the discomfort of those bug bites. You can also use Sting Relief Pads to alleviate bug-sting pain from bees, wasps, hornets, and mosquitos.

Itchiness and discomfort aren't the only problems that come with mosquito bites; these bugs can also carry diseases, such as the West Nile virus. Therefore, it's important not just to treat the bites but to also prevent them from happening in the first place. Though this isn't always a practical solution, try avoiding the outdoors in the early morning and after dusk, as this is when they are most prevalent. Otherwise, have everyone use insect repellant to ward off the mosquitos.

Make sure you know if any of the kids have bee-sting allergies. They may need injectable epinephrine prescribed by their doctor rather than just relief pads and ointment. However, some kids may not realize they are allergic to bees if they've never been stung before. In all bee- or wasp-sting cases, you'll have to spot the signs of a severe allergic reaction. If a child is stung and exhibits symptoms of anaphylaxis (a bodily reaction that can be fatal) such as vomiting, fainting, feeling of tightness in the chest, and wheezing, seek medical attention immediately. Implement these allergy relief strategies to have a stress-free summer.

Outdoor Products & Accessories   
MFASCO's Make a Kit Tool 
Outdoor First Aid Kits 
Allergy Relief Medications 
 

Additional Resources for Outdoor Kits & Supplies    
Top 8 First Aid Kit Types 
5 Outdoor Health Tips - Part 1 
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On a lake, ocean, or sea, boating is a popular summer activity. As with all outdoor sports, boating first aid is important for staying safe and having fun while riding on the lake. Out on the open water, you'll be away from immediate medical assistance, so you need to be prepared for any emergency on the vessel. If you're taking the family on a weekend boating trip or plan to be cruising along the waves all summer long, it's important to keep these first aid tips in mind:

Safety in numbers  
One of the most important rules of boating is to never go out on the water alone. Since the potential for accidents is high with boating, always take a buddy along so you'll always have someone available to administer first aid. Even if you're just going for a short ride or plan on remaining stationary in the water, it's important to have at least one other person accompanying you and to let someone on land know you'll be on the water.

Wear a life jacket  
If you're leading a boat outing, make sure that there are life vests available for each boater. All passengers under the age of 13 are required to wear a life jacket while on board a moving boat under federal regulations, according to BoatU.S. Foundation for Clean Water and Boating Safety. However, requirements for different ages vary by state, so check with your local laws before embarking on a water adventure.

Head injuries  
With all the tossing and turning on the waves, it's not unusual for a passenger to take a tumble. Even if that person doesn't get tossed overboard, falling while on the hard surfaces of a boat can result in serious head injuries. 
If a passenger experiences a head injury, stabilize the upper body by placing your hands on either side of his or her head, advises the National Institutes of Health. This will help keep the injured victim's body steady while someone drives the boat back to shore. If that person is not breathing, you may need to deliver CPR. 

Open wounds are common with head injuries, and cuts on the scalp tend to bleed profusely. Press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth from your first aid kit to stop the bleeding. However, if you suspect the skull has been fractured, do not put pressure on the wound. Just cover it with gauze until you reach professional medical help.

  
Hypothermia  
In the earliest months of summer, water, especially larger bodies like lakes and oceans, has not had any time to warm up. Falling overboard into the cold water may result in hypothermia. If the victim is shaking uncontrollably due to freezing cold waters, you need to begin first aid right away. Remove the wet clothes and replace them with dry ones, wrap the victim in a warm sleeping bag, and apply heat packets to his or her body to help regulate the internal temperature. 

Though these tips may help in an emergency, it's best to avoid accidents altogether. When driving the boat, pay attention to the task at hand, and make sure passengers are at a safe distance from the vessel's edge.

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