Infection Prevention, Wound Care, and Hygiene This might be the part that kills most people > if you can, stock some broad-spectrum topical antibiotics, antiseptics (chlorhexidine, povidone-iodine, alcohol), sterile saline or clean water for irrigation, non-stick dressings, gauze, tape, and gloves
> proper wound cleaning: irrigate thoroughly with clean water or saline under pressure, remove debris, apply antiseptic, cover, and monitor for redness, increasing pain, pus, fever, or red streaks
> have plan for minor procedures you might need to manage (splinters, small lacerations, burns) and know when a wound is beyond home care (deep, dirty, animal bite, involving joints/tendons, or not healing)
> good hand hygiene is your friend, prevention is best, regularly wash with soap and water or alcohol-based sanitizer (stock large quantities) - this single measure prevents the majority of diarrheal and respiratory illness
> signs of serious infection: high fever, rigors, confusion, rapid breathing, low blood pressure symptoms, or localized infection that is rapidly worsening
> manage human waste safely (bucket toilet systems with sawdust/lime or proper pit placement far from water sources) to prevent fecal-oral disease transmission Temperature Regulation and Environmental Health > in cold weather: layered clothing, hats, dry socks, and insulated sleeping systems > progression of hypothermia = shivering → confusion → lethargy, treat with gradual rewarming, dry clothes, and warm fluids if conscious.
> in heat: shade, evaporative cooling (wet cloths), electrolyte replacement, and recognition of heat exhaustion vs heat stroke (altered mental status is an emergency)
> stock up on fever reducers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen) and know safe dosing by weight for children, avoid aspirin in children with viral illness
> never run generators, camp stoves, or grills indoors or in enclosed spaces and stock battery-powered CO detectors if possible Dental, Vision, and Other > Dental: extra toothbrushes, floss, temporary filling material (e.g., dental wax or commercial temporary cement), clove oil for toothache, and know that untreated dental abscesses can become systemic
> Vision: spare glasses/contacts and solution and know that sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or trauma needs urgent attention if any care is available
> Skin: moisturizer, barrier creams for incontinence or prolonged moisture, and sun protection
> Sleep: earplugs, eye masks, and consistent routines and know that chronic sleep deprivation rapidly degrades immune function, decision-making, and mood Monitoring, Documentation, and Decision Thresholds > keep a basic medical kit with thermometer, blood pressure cuff (manual), pulse oximeter (if available), glucose meter, and a notebook to track vital signs, symptoms, and med administration
> make a clear personal “go/no-go” list for seeking outside help if any medical resources remain available (like persistent high fever, inability to keep fluids down, chest pain, severe shortness of breath, uncontrolled bleeding, altered mental status, or signs of sepsis)
> pre-write advance directives, medication lists, allergy lists, and emergency contacts on paper
> learn or refresh basic skills: CPR, choking relief, bleeding control, splinting, and burn care and consider formal training in wilderness or austere medicine if time allows before any crisis