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How to Pack a Sports First Aid Kit

Being prepared is always wise. But having a properly supplied emergency kit is essential when coaching, playing or volunteering with sports teams.

Things You'll Need

  • First-aid manual
  • Instant cold packs
  • Bandages (in different sizes)
  • Elastic bandages for wrapping sprains or splints
  • Adhesive tape
  • Scissors
  • Sterile gloves
  • Antiseptic spray or cream
  • Ibuprofen or aspirin
  • Hydrogen peroxide and isopropyl alcohol
  • Sterile gauze pads, cotton balls
  • Standard oral thermometer
  • CPR mouth barrier
  • Safety pins
  • Small plastic bags (to hold ice cubes)
  • Blanket
  • Cell phone
  • Tweezers
  • Allergy medications for insect stings
  • Sunscreen
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Instructions

  1. How to Pack a Sports First-Aid Kit

    • 1

      Accidents can happen anywhere, so it's best to be prepared, especially on the sporting field where young athletes are susceptible to common injuries.

    • 2

      Packing a sports first-aid kit is pretty simple, but it's wise to be "sport-specific" when thinking about contents. For instance, track athletes are more susceptible to blisters, pulled muscles and sprains. Baseball and softball players may need extra ice packs and bandages for cuts and abrasions. Likewise, summer outdoor sports may require sunscreen or extra water supply to avoid dehydration.

    • 3

      Be realistic when thinking about how much you should pack. Sometimes, more than one young athlete may become injured or ill at the same time. Make sure your kit is well stocked.

    • 4

      Keep the first-aid kit in an easily accessible place near the action. It does little good to be in a car trunk or inside a nearby building. Clearly mark the supplies to avoid confusion. For instance, allergy medication should be labeled as such, and latex-free gloves or bandages should be clearly set aside from other supplies.

    • 5

      Keep the first-aid kit out of the elements, such as rain or snow, to prevent the contents from becoming damaged.

    • 6

      It's also a good idea to have a list of allergies or conditions the athletes might suffer from in advance. Making a list before the season starts or before each game is a smart step. Also, keep an emergency phone number list handy, including who to reach if an athlete becomes ill or is injured. For serious injuries or illness, call local emergency personnel or the police as soon as possible. Keep injured party warm and comfortable until help arrives.

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