DIY – Climbing first aid kit

Injury they are something no one is looking for. Unfortunately, we cannot always avoid them and accidents happen. When an injury happens to us inside on one of the organized walls, the solution is straightforward and quickly secured through team members or nearby climbers. Outside, however, it's something else. When we climb outside, it's nice to have something like a climbing first aid kit with us. We never know when something might happen to us, our partners or the people around us.

Purchased vs. Homemade

Climbing first aid kits are, like for example KPZ, often bought already assembled and ready for use. There is nothing wrong with these pre-made first aid kits. But they are designed for a certain thing, which does not always have to be suitable for rock climbing. For that reason, we personally prefer to have first aid kits prepared by us, where there are things for climbers. 

Of course, this does not mean that you must immediately create your own first aid kit and throw away the purchased one or, on the contrary, buy a large first aid kit for climbing for several thousand. It's about having something that's practical, small, and something you're good at and, most importantly, good at

How to begin?

How to start creating something like a climbing first aid kit? It's surprisingly simple. The first step is to have something to put the contents of the first aid kit into. Car first aid kit cases, tiny boat bags or personal hygiene cases are ideal for small portable first aid kit needs. And if you manage to use up an old car first aid kit, Hooray! You have much of the work done.

The contents of the first aid kit

So what to actually stuff into the newly found case? Depending on the size of the bag you found, we'll try to put six main things in there. Some basic meds, anti-bleeding stuff, disinfectant, something small for burns (probably from the rope) and some fixatives. In short, the things that we could most need u climbing injuries.

1. Basic medicines

Some basic assortment of medicines is a good choice for every first aid kit. Some ibuprofen (Brufen or Ibalgin) or paracetamol (Paralen, Panadol) for pain are always a good option. If only because nothing ruins a day out like a headache or a toothache. Other medicines that are suitable are those for digestive problems such as Endiaron or animal charcoal.

The labeling of medicines belongs to all those who do not have it on the packaging (see our Nimesil and Smecta). We recommend labeling medicines with their name, use and expiry date.

2. Bleeding and skin injuries

Torn skin, broken knees and elbows, small strains. This is all part of climbing. When we're bleeding, sometimes it's nice to be able to stop it. A basic mix of plasters, wound dressings and speed stitches is a nice base for a climbing first aid kit. For larger wounds, it's nice to have bandages with pads, but we'll get to them later.

3. Disinfection

Disinfection goes hand in hand with wounds. Especially for climbers, when skin injuries are often associated with dirt and stones. We definitely don't want our fingers to fester. Therefore, apply disinfectant to injured areas after climbing, so that there are no problems with it.

It's in my medicine cabinet betadine, as it is for personal use and I have no allergies. But for those who have people around them with many allergies or intolerances to certain disinfectants, we recommend that you ask and choose the one that will be suitable for as many people as possible

4. Burns

Burns are not something we have to deal with too much. But there is a certain risk of getting burned by the rope or the rock while climbing (yes, it happens). In that rare moment, it's nice to have something small for burns. Car first aid kits usually have their own dressing for burns. However, water or disinfectant is often enough to wash the wound and then cover it so that the wound does not start to fester.

5. Fixation

The last main thing that belongs in the first aid kit is things to fix injuries. Bandages, bandages and things like that. As a sure foundation, there are pads with one or two pads, a bandage, a dressing for the wound and something to keep the pads in place. There is not a single three-pronged scarf to throw away. 

These things can also be found in every car medicine cabinet or bought in pharmacies for little money. Therefore, we would not be afraid to buy more of them, as they are used more often than, for example, a poultice for burns.

6. Other things and bonuses

If you want to have a really precise climbing first aid kit, we recommend throwing in a few other things as well. At the same time, you can throw them in there even if you have a surplus from the old car first aid kit. Gadgets won't get lost here.

The first thing we put in our first aid kit was isothermal foil. It weighs nothing, costs a few crowns and really warms up when needed. We also used rubber gloves and a nano mask for first aid from an old first aid kit (although we don't think we'll ever use it) and scissors for cutting fabric and bandages. The last thing we carry (or rather I carry) in the first aid kit is a rubber tourniquet. But it is worth wearing only for those who know how to use it and have tried it several times in practice, not just theoretically in the classroom.

But these last things are really the icing on the cake of a climbing first aid kit. They are not necessary, but they are definitely a pleasure.

What is most important?

It's nice to have a first aid kit ready. Even better is never having to use it. But when it comes down to it, you need to know what to do with each item. Having them and not being able to use them is pointless. Therefore, we appeal to you to familiarize yourself and your climbing partners with the contents of your first aid kit. Feel the tools and try to use them for practice (ideally not all pieces, keep them sterile).

It would be perfect to refresh your knowledge or take a first aid course once in a while, but we won't push you that far. It is "enough" to be able to treat basic injuries to yourself, the other person and dial the numbers 112, 155 or 150. And above all, think about safety before something goes wrong!

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