What to Include in Your Nautical First Aid Kit (and How to Use It Properly)

Sailing safely means being prepared for any situation. That’s why having a well-equipped and updated nautical first aid kit is essential for dealing with emergencies at sea, where medical assistance may not be immediately available.

This article outlines what a complete nautical first aid kit should contain, how to use it correctly, and key maintenance tips.

1. Why it’s essential to have a nautical first aid kit

At sea, even a minor injury can become serious if not treated properly. A first aid kit on board:

• Allows you to act on minor injuries or common symptoms.

• Buys time in more serious situations while help is requested.

• Is a legal requirement on many vessels under maritime regulations.

2. Basic contents that cannot be missing

A nautical kit should be compact, waterproof, and contain at least:

Medical supplies

• Sterile gauze, elastic bandages, and adhesive plasters

• Tape and waterproof coverings for wet wounds

• Scissors, tweezers, and disposable gloves

• Antiseptics (chlorhexidine or povidone-iodine)

• Saline solution (single-dose if possible)

Basic medication (over-the-counter)

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen (pain and fever)

• Oral antihistamines (mild allergies)

• Motion sickness medicine (Dimenhydrinate or similar)

• Gel or cream for sunburns

• High-protection sunscreen

Additional tools

• Digital thermometer

• Basic first aid manual

• Emergency thermal blanket

3. Recommended medication (prescription and medical supervision)

For long trips or offshore navigation, it’s advisable to include prescription-based medicines:

• Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin).

• Injectable epinephrine (for diagnosed allergies).

• Oral rehydration salts.

• Personal medication of crew members (sufficient quantity).

4. How to use and maintain your kit

• Visible and accessible location: avoid humid areas or where it could be damaged.

• Periodic check: verify expiry dates every 6 months.

• Updated inventory list: keep a visible sheet inside the kit.

• Basic training: at least one person on board should know basic first aid techniques.

A complete and updated nautical first aid kit is vital for any type of navigation. Investing in its contents and knowing how to use it not only meets legal requirements but also protects your crew and yourself.