BOAT MEDIC FIRST-AID KIT

Every boat should carry a complete first-aid kit. The Boat Medic first-aid kit by My Medic comes in a floating Nanuk 904 waterproof carry box, which measures only about 10-by-8-by-4.5 inches, making it easy to stow on almost any boat.

We asked a registered nurse to look over this kit, and she was impressed: “This has everything but an AED [automated external defibrillator].” The supplies are organized in clear zip-top packets with a bold label so you can grab what you need in an emergency. Those packets cover severe bleeding, sprain and fracture, burns, cuts and scrapes, plus include a foldable splint, bandage shears, a Mylar blanket, medical-grade tweezers, a CPR shield, and a flashlight for checking pupil dilation. Other items include pain reliever, electrolyte tablets, antihistamine, Dramamine and more. My Medic sells replacement packets of these supplies. Our RN suggests adding a Sharpie marker for noting the time a tourniquet was applied. We’d try to squeeze in a diagonal cutter for fish-hook removal. If we have a quibble, it’s that everything fits so tightly in the case, there’s no space for additional supplies.

The best first-aid kit is useless if you don’t know how to use it. My Medic offers an online course ($125), or check out courses offered by the American Red Cross. $219.95; mymedic.com