Wilderness Safety & First Aid Resources

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.

• Don’t Panic’s First Aid Kit Packing List

• Order Form: Don’t Panic’s Preassembled First Aid Kit

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.

• Listen: CoROM Podcast, Wilderness Medicine Updates, Out Alive

• Read: Deep Survival, Dare to Lead, Touching the Void.

• Watch: Lost Person Behavior with Dr. Robert J. Koester, Touching the Void

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.