To IFAK or not to IFAK, is it even a question?

To IFAK or not to IFAK, is it even a question?

As an emergency medical technician, as well as an avid outdoorsman, I have seen firsthand how critical the first few minutes after an injury can be. An Individual First Aid Kit, or IFAK, contains essential lifesaving equipment that can make the difference between life and death during those critical first minutes.

An IFAK should contain tools to treat massive bleeding, including tourniquets, pressure bandages, chest seals, and hemostatic gauze. Uncontrolled bleeding is the number one cause of preventable death in trauma, so these tools are essential. An IFAK should also contain basic airway management equipment, gloves, trauma shears, and emergency blankets.

Carrying an IFAK is especially important for those in high-risk professions like law enforcement, firefighting, and the military. However, in today's world of active shooter events and mass casualty incidents, everyone should consider carrying an IFAK. You never know when you might be the first on the scene of an accident or emergency.

That said, take into account any specific needs of your family or household. Children? Special needs individuals? Pets? Some times these require different IFAK contents or, at the very least, items to reduce the stress of the situation. There should be an IFAK in every office, vehicle, boat, and..well..there should be one everywhere.

An IFAK does not require advanced medical training to use and can be employed by virtually anyone, but we HIGHLY recommend seeking training. Knowledge + training = better chances of survival. Get prepped. Survive. This information does not constitute medical advice and the reader holds Bugout Bros harmless and free of liability.