If you’re a reader of Epic Tactical then chances are you’re a hardy sole and one that is cognizant of the challenges out there in today’s turbulent world. We plan, prepare and pack everything that we think we’re going to need for the day or perhaps that long haul to the in-laws. All too often we forget one of the most important items in our backpack of goodies.
Those that live the warrior mind set have one focus in hand, get through the day safely, protect our family and those around us, god forbid something should happen.
But what happens when things don’t go as planned? As we often here, “Shit Happens” and yes my friends it does. Some things we can correct, but when it comes to medical, time can be of the essence and without the right preparation, it can go south, rapidly! A simple cut unattended with a Band-Aid or bandage can fester into a serious situation. A laceration that’s deep or worst hits a major artery can be life changing.
For whatever reason, people fail to plan when it comes to medical or having an IFAK. We make sure we have the sun screen, the latest Glock 19, two magazines, water and more, but we fail to think “what’s missing in my bad”? An IFAK should at the top of your packing list.

Today, there are an abundance of Individual First Aid Kits on the market.  During my time working the streets of Los Angeles as a paramedic, I’ve learned there are items that are a “must carry” in my personal IFAK.  Additionally, I’ve learned that if you don’t create your own IFAK, what often happens is that your super “E-Bay IFAK” purchase ends up missing some of the most essential items needed at critical moments.
I have spoken to many people that say finding the right kit has been a challenge over the years. Everyone has different needs. From the prepper worried about the next LA earthquake, the hurricane bearing down on the community to the school teacher concerned about today’s environment. Different individualized kits are needed based on one’s personal training and lifestyle.

While it may appear to be easy to run to the local Walmart and buy an over the counter kit, you may very well realize that you need more items and at more expense then if you would have taken the time to do a little research and assemble a kit that is right for you.
As I recently attended the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, I was fortunate enough to find the booth of Elite First Aid, a company located in Wake Forest, North Carolina. Founded in 1996 by Air Force veteran Peter Sweery, we had a great conversation about IFAK’s and why people don’t make them a priority. Interestingly the company has seen steady growth since its inception and is no stranger to the SHOT Show where they’ve had a booth for several years.  Peter said they had seem an increase in IFAK sales as well as calls from customers asking about kits, which is a promising sign.
So the question is, what do you pack and take into the field with you? Do you take anything? I’ve traveled around the globe and rarely have I been asked about an IFAK or what I was carrying. Guys, it’s important to have a plan, communicate with your teammates and know who is carrying what. If need be designate one person in charge of medical. Trust me, when the “Shit hits the fan” you’ll be grateful you did!
Hopefully this will give you something to think about when you’re planning the next trip across town, state lines or that visit to the South of France. If you are not in the mindset of carrying an IFAK every day, I suggest you give it some serious thoughts. If you have ever thought about a kit for home, car or that three day grab and go bag, Elite First Aid offers EMS/Medic Kits, Military IFAK’s, M-3 Medic Bags, Trauma Kits and more to fit your level of training skill set and needs.
There are certainly other company’s out there, but It’s difficult to know exactly what’s best to carry in a medical kit if you’re not an EMT or Paramedic. Having a conversation with Elite First Aid takes the guesswork out of it and can offer that piece of mind and a custom kit that fits your needs.  I love that they offer a free consultation and then if you’re interested, they can set you up with an IFAK or medical kit that fits you perfectly.
Check them out at www.elite1staid.com

Author bio: Allan R. Smith is the Past-President of the Adventurers Club, a U.S. Marine, Firefighter/Paramedic, Chairman of the Explorers Club and a writer/filmmaker focused on the Tactical and Outdoor film industry.