If you hunt, fish, hike, camp or do anything else outdoors, sooner or later you’ll need something from a first aid kit. This time of year, I keep one kit in the bottom of my hunting pack and another under the seat of my vehicle.

My choice is The Essentials by Adventure Medical Kits. The kit was developed by Dr. Eric A. Weiss, an expert on outdoor medicine. It includes an emergency survival blanket, Brunton Glo-Mate compass, waterproof/windproof matches, fire starter, whistle, bandages, medications, Moleskin, forceps, wilderness first aid pamphlet and more.

The entire kit measures 6.5 inches by 5.5 inches by 2.5 inches and weighs just 11 ounces. The waterproof carrying case even has a topographic map window. The kit was designed for short trips for one or two people. The extra large survival blanket can fit two adults.

Anyone heading out this winter on cross-country skis, snowshoes or snowmobiles should also consider carrying along this kit. The matches, fire starter, compass, shelter and whistle could mean the difference between life and death if you’re injured or lost.

Mountain Supply in Bend has a variety of Adventure Medical kits. Or, call 800-324-3517. The Essentials costs $39.

Scott Staats is a freelance writer. He can be contacted at falcon@oregonvos.net.