All divers should carry a first aid kit, and know how to use it. While sharks are not a significant threat to divers, there are other creatures who can inflict significant damage if they choose to defend themselves.

Dr. Miller from the UCSD Hyperbaric chamber recommends the following items for a good first aid kit. Most are available from Wal-Mart, or the drug store. Travel sizes are often the most suitable if you want to keep the kit size small.

• Disposable vinyl or latex gloves
• Deodorant cleansing soap (antibacterial)
• Household vinegar solution (neutralize jellyfish stings)
• Household ammonia
• Antibiotic ointment (i.e. Neosporin or Bacitracin, etc.)
• Hydrocortisone cream, 1%
• Non-aspirin pain reliever
• Hot packs
• Cold packs (pain relief)
• Denatured alcohol, 12 oz. bottle for sterilizing instruments
• Absorbent dressings to control severe bleeding with pressure
• Squeeze bottle of water, 6 oz, for irrigating eyes and wounds
• Squeeze bottle of sterile saline
• Sterile cotton, gauze pads and adhesive tape
• Band-aids and butterfly bandages
• Q-tips
• Tongue depressors
• Disposable cups
• Razor blades, single edged
• Tweezers or forceps
• Needle nosed pliers with wire cutters to remove fishhooks
• bandage scissors
• Lighter or waterproof matches
• Space blanket
• Penlight
• Seasickness medication
• Pocket mask (eliminates direct contact while resuscitating a person)
• Backboard, splints, and neck brace if space permits.

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