Wilderness Safety & First Aid Resources

At Don't Panic SD, we believe education shouldn't end in the classroom. This library is designed to help you stay prepared and respond with confidence in the rugged reality of the Black Hills and beyond.

Explore Our Tools:

  • Gear Up: Access Don’t Panic’s custom First Aid Kit packing list and order form to ensure your medical kit is field-ready.

  • Deepen Your Knowledge: Browse recommended podcasts and books to keep your clinical skills sharp.

  • Group Resources: Download educational materials designed for organizations, SAR teams, and outdoor groups.

Your training is a journey. Use these tools to bridge the gap between "knowing" and "doing."

Order a first aid kit

  • Our most common question? What’s in your first aid kit? Here’s a list of what I recommend that graduates of our courses carry so that you can build your own first aid kit. Or, if you’d rather, you can buy one from us preassembled.

  • These free, printable resources are specifically designed for parents, teachers, and group leaders to teach foundational wilderness and safety concepts to children

    • 10 Essentials Lesson Plan (From Don’t Panic): Our complete, low-prep guide perfect for organizations and school groups. Includes scenario cards, activity instructions, and adaptation tips for teaching kids how to pack and prepare for any trip.

    • Hug-A-Tree and Survive (from SAR Academy): A vital, free program that teaches children the core survival principles—especially staying put when lost—developed to instill confidence, not fear.

    • STOP Acronym (from the National Forest Service): A simple, memorable resource for older kids that outlines the four immediate steps to take if they ever become lost in the woods.

    • The 10 Essentials (from the National Park Service): The foundational list of the basic items all hikers should carry, presented in a clear, easy-to-read format.

    • 10 Essentials Picture Find (from Washington Trails Association): A fun, visual activity to reinforce the essential items, ideal for younger learners or as a quick warm-up.

  • A curated list of recommended reading, listening, and watching materials for students and professionals.

  • Technical links and specialized knowledge for seasoned professionals, including links to protocols, regulatory bodies, advanced certifications, and high-level medical research.

    • Satelite mapping apps - CalTopo, Avenza, OnX, Gaia. Choose & download one you like and use it!

    • Text 911 - This service is becoming available nation-wide and is extremely helpful in a backcountry situation where reception is spotty. Always call when you can, but texting can be great when it’s your only option.