The First Aid Merit Badge: Your Ultimate Guide In 2025

Your patrol is halfway through a challenging hike when a fellow Scout trips and falls hard on their knee. Or, maybe you’re at summer camp when someone burns themselves with grease at the cooking station! Are you prepared to handle the situation? Luckily, once you have the Eagle-required, First Aid merit badge, you’ll be prepared for these types of emergencies, as well as many others!

If you’re following along with the merit badge worksheet from 2025, this guide will provide you with all the answers to the requirements needed to learn the First Aid merit badge. Once finished, you’ll be equipped to handle almost any medical emergency and have the ability to save lives. Grab some buddies! First Aid is most fun when completed as a group of Scouts.

Before we get started, if you have other Eagle-required merit badges to earn, I’d recommend checking out my Difficulty Ranking Guide to Every Eagle-required Badge. There, you’ll also find the links to my other merit badge guides, as well as a description and summary of each badge’s requirements. I’m certain this resource will be helpful to Scouts on their road to Eagle!

Also, remember that ScoutSmarts should just serve as your starting point for merit badge research. In school, we’re taught not to plagiarize, and the same is true for Scouting worksheets. Answer these questions in your own words, do further research, and I promise you’ll gain much more from every merit badge you earn!

While working on this merit badge, I’d highly recommend getting a stocked and reliable first aid kit to accompany you on your Scouting adventures. This Survival First Aid Kit on Amazon not only provides all of the medical equipment you’ll need for this badge — it can also help save your life if you’re stranded in the wild!

Take your time to read through the official First Aid merit badge requirements below. This badge will take multiple days to earn, and an experienced Scout always remembers to plan ahead. The slow and steady method isn’t just the best way to earn the First Aid merit badge, it’s the key to reaching your Eagle rank as well! 🙂

What Are The First Aid Merit Badge Requirements In 2025?

1. Handling a First Aid Emergency. Do the following:
   a) Explain the steps necessary to assess and handle a first aid emergency, including a safety evaluation of the scene.
   b) Tell how you would obtain emergency medical assistance from your home and from a remote location on a wilderness camping trip.
   c) Demonstrate the precautions you must take to reduce the risk of transmitting an infection between you and the victim while administering first aid, including the safe disposal of used first aid supplies.
   d) Demonstrate evaluation of and management of a patient’s airway and breathing.
   e) Demonstrate a thorough examination of an accident victim.
   f) Discuss why shock is an emergency.
   g) Define the term triage and describe examples of triage situations that you may encounter.
2. Preparing for First Aid Emergencies. Do the following:
   a) Obtain a copy of the Scout Annual Health and Medical Record and discuss the importance of the form including information on immunizations, allergies, medications, health history, and medical examinations to providing first aid at Scouting events.
   b) Using checklists provided in the First Aid Merit Badge pamphlet or ones approved by your counselor, do the following:
   1. Assemble a personal first-aid kit for hiking and backpacking. Demonstrate the proper use of each item in your first-aid kit to your counselor.
   2. With your counselor, inspect a unit, home, vehicle, or camp first-aid kit and discuss your findings.
3. Wounds with No External Bleeding. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these wounds:
   a) Closed wounds, such as a bruise (contusion) or a hematoma
   b) Superficial, partial thickness, and full thickness thermal (heat) burns or scalds
   c) Chemical burns
   d) Electrical burns
   e) Sunburn
   f) Snow blindness
   g) Immersion foot, frostnip, frostbite, and ice burns
   h) Abrasions, such as chafing and rope burns
   i) Blisters on the hands, feet, buttocks, and shoulders
   j) Puncture wounds from splinters, rope splinters, nails, and fish hooks
   k) Rash from poisonous plants
   l) Bug bites of chiggers, ticks, mosquitoes, and biting gnats
   m) Bee stings
   n) Bites of spiders
   o) Sting of a scorpion
   p) Bite of a pet or wild mammal or human
   q) Bite of a venomous snake.
4. Bleeding Wounds. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these wounds:
   a) A nosebleed.
   b) An open wound with mild or moderate bleeding, such as a scratch or a scrape (abrasions), or a shallow cut (laceration).
   c) An open wound with severe bleeding such as a deep cut on an arm or leg.
   d) Explain when it is appropriate and is not appropriate to use one or more tourniquets. List some of the benefits and dangers of using a tourniquet. Demonstrate the application of a tourniquet without tightening it.
5. Breathing Emergencies. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain the prevention of these conditions affecting breathing:
   a) Choking
   b) Asthmatic attack
   c) Anaphylaxis from an insect bite or sting or from food or product allergy
   d) Inhalation injuries
   e) Altitude sickness.
6. Loss of Consciousness. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these conditions causing loss of consciousness:
   a) Fainting
   b) Hypoglycemia
   c) Seizure
   d) Drug overdose and alcohol poisoning
   e) Underwater hypoxic blackout
   f) Cold water shock and drowning
   g) Lightning strike and electric shock.
7. Heart Attack. Do the following:
   a) Explain what a heart attack is.
   b) Describe the symptoms and signs of a heart attack and first aid for this condition.
   c) Describe the conditions that must exist before performing CPR on a person.
   d) Demonstrate proper CPR technique using a training device approved by your counselor.
   e) Explain the use of an automated external defibrillator (AED).
   f) Demonstrate or simulate the proper use of an AED, using an AED training device if available.
   g) Identify the typical location(s) of one or more AED(s) at public facilities in your community, such as your school, place of worship, unit meeting place, sports facilities, and/or camp or by using a smart phone app. Discuss the reasons for choosing locations like these.
8. Muscle and Bone Injuries. Do the following:
   a) Explain the similarities and differences in a strain, a muscle tear, a tendon rupture, a sprain, a dislocation, a simple fracture, and a compound fracture.
   b) Describe the symptoms and signs of and first aid for a muscle strain, a muscle tear, and a tendon rupture.
   c) Describe the symptoms and signs of, and potential complications of, a sprain, a fracture, and a dislocation.
   d) Demonstrate bandages for these injuries:
   1. Arm slings for forearm or upper arm or collarbone fractures
   2. Elastic wrap and cravat bandages for ankle sprain
   3. Elastic wrap and cravat bandages for wrist sprain or hand injury.
   e) Demonstrate the proper procedures for handling and splinting of suspected closed or open fractures or dislocations of the:
   1. Finger and toe
   2. Forearm or wrist
   3. Upper leg
   4. Lower leg or ankle.
9. Head and Spine Injuries. Do the following:
   a) Describe the symptoms and signs of, relationships between, possible complications of, and prevention of head, neck, and back injuries.
   b) Describe the symptoms and signs of and first aid for a concussion.
   c) Demonstrate first aid for an open head wound with a triangular or other bandage.
   d) Demonstrate first aid for someone with a suspected neck or back injury.
10. Moving a Patient. Do the following:
    a) Describe the conditions under which an injured person should and should not be moved.
    b) If a sick or an injured person must be moved, tell how you would decide the best method. Demonstrate these methods.
    c) By yourself and with a partner, demonstrate how to transport a person from a smoke-filled room.
    d) By yourself and with a partner, demonstrate how to transport a person with a sprained ankle for at least 25 yards.
    e) With helpers under your supervision, improvise a stretcher and move a presumably unconscious person for at least 25 yards.
11. Heat- and Cold-related Conditions. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these conditions associated with exertion and/or heat or cold exposure:
    a) Dehydration and over-hydration
    b) Heat cramps and muscle pain after exertion
    c) Heat exhaustion
    d) Heat stroke
    e) Chest pains associated with cold exposure
    f) Hypothermia.
12. Mental Health Conditions. Describe the following:
    a) Reactions associated with at least three stressful situations, such as mountain backpacking, rappelling, a ropes course, speaking before an audience, making a phone call to an adult, taking a swim test, missing home, lighting a match, trying out for a sports team, meeting someone for the first time, or other stressful circumstances.
    b) The actions that you and others should take to prepare for and manage these situations.
    c) The indications that someone might be a danger to themselves or others.
    d) The actions that you should take if you suspect that someone might be a danger to themselves or others.
13. Miscellaneous Conditions. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of the following conditions:
    a) Object in the eye
    b) Broken, chipped, loosened, or knocked out tooth
    c) Vomiting and diarrhea associated with food poisoning
    d) Abdominal pain
    e) Stroke.
14. With guidance from your counselor, develop a plan to teach a first-aid skill or topic using the EDGE method. Discuss your skill, topic, and plan with your counselor, and then teach your skill or topic to your family or to one or more Scouts.
15. Do ONE of the following:
    a) Visit an emergency medical station house or training center in person. From the medical first responders that you meet during your visit, learn about how they serve their community and about their careers. Discuss with your counselor what you learned during your tour and interviews.
    b) Interview an emergency medical services professional about their work. Learn about how they chose this career and about their duties. Discuss what you learned with your counselor and whether you might be interested in this career.
    c) Identify three career opportunities that would use skills and knowledge in emergency medical services. Pick one and research the training, education, certification requirements, experience, and expenses associated with entering the field. Research the prospects for employment, starting salary, advancement opportunities, and career goals associated with this career. Discuss what you learned with your counselor and whether you might be interested in this career.
    d) Identify how you might use the skills and knowledge in the field of emergency medical services to pursue a personal hobby and/or healthy lifestyle. Research the additional training required, expenses, and affiliation with organizations that would help you maximize the enjoyment and benefit you might gain from it. Discuss what you learned with your counselor and share what short-term and long-term goals you might have if you pursued this.

Before we dive into the details, let’s discuss what exactly needs to be done before earning the First Aid merit badge. You’ll be required to explain, demonstrate, and act out many skills related to treating an injured person, which you’ll be learning in this guide. In the process, you’ll learn CPR, prepare your own first-aid kit, identify treatment and prevention for over 30 kinds of first-aid emergencies, and even improvise methods of transporting an injured person!

Handling a First Aid Emergency. Do the following:
1a) Explain the steps necessary to assess and handle a first aid emergency, including a safety evaluation of the scene.

Handling a first-aid emergency is all about staying calm and acting quickly. However, your first priority should always be keeping yourself and others safe. Panicking or rushing into a dangerous situation could lead to more victims, which will only make things worse. That’s why it’s so important to assess and evaluate the situation beforehand!

Below are five essential steps to be prepared for a first-aid emergency and handle the situation effectively:

1. Evaluate the Scene for Safety: Before rushing in to help, take a moment to scan the area for dangers. Look for hazards like fire, sharp objects, traffic, electrical wires, or violent individuals. If the scene isn’t safe, don’t put yourself at risk and call for help instead.
2. Check the Victim’s Condition: If the scene is safe, approach the injured person and try to get a response. Ask loudly, “Are you okay?” and gently tap their shoulder. If they don’t respond, check if they’re breathing by putting your ear over their mouth and feel for a pulse. Also, look for life-threatening injuries like heavy bleeding or unconsciousness.
3. Call for Help: If the person is unresponsive or seriously hurt, tell someone nearby to call 911 (if there are multiple bystanders call out someone specific so there no confusion about who will be calling). The caller should give clear details, including:
   • The location of the emergency.
   • The nature of the injury (e.g., “unconscious but breathing”).
   • Any first aid being provided.
4. Provide Immediate First Aid: Based on the injury, you may need to take immediate action:
   • If unconscious but breathing: Place them in the recovery position (on their side).
   • If not breathing: Start CPR immediately (Unless you have a mouthguard and are comfortable, the American Heart Association recommends only compressions and no rescue breaths).
   • For heavy bleeding: Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth.
5. Stay with the Victim Until Help Arrives: Reassure the person, keep them warm, and monitor their condition. Try to strike up a positive conversation to distract them from pain or panic. If they stop breathing or their heart stops beating, be ready to perform CPR.

By providing aid only after safely evaluating the scene, you’ll ensure there aren’t additional victims that the first responders need to help. In upcoming requirements, I’ll be teaching you how to treat various injuries and be prepared for nearly any first aid condition. For you visual learners out there, here’s a great video (4:03) showcasing how to do an initial assessment and safety evaluation of an emergency scene:

Now that you have this solid 5-step foundation, it’s time to jump to requirement 1b!

1b) Tell how you would obtain emergency medical assistance from your home and from a remote location on a wilderness camping trip.

Calling 911 is the simplest and most effective way to reach emergency medical services from home and most other places with cell service. When speaking with a 911 dispatcher, immediately inform them of 4 things:

1. The emergency: Use as much detail as possible to quickly describe the emergency. Instead of saying “my friend is unconscious,” say, “My friend fell off a 6 ft ledge at [your location] and hit his head. He’s breathing and not bleeding, but is currently unconscious, and has been for the last 3 minutes.”
2. What’s currently happening: Is anyone performing CPR or taking first-aid measures? Quickly tell the dispatcher how the situation is being handled.
3. Your location: Be as precise as possible when describing your location. For example, instead of just saying your school’s name, say, “I’m at x school by the bleachers next to the football field.” Send someone to meet the responders and guide them to you, if possible.
4. Your phone number: EMS may need to call you back if they are unable to find you. In case your call disconnects, make sure to give the dispatcher the phone number that you’re currently calling from.

Stay on the line until help arrives and be sure not to leave the victim unattended. Often, you will receive emergency first aid guidance from the dispatchers. For more valuable info, check out this quick demonstration (2:23), made by a real paramedic, on how best to prepare for an effective 911 call!

Additionally, poison control can also be reached at 1-800-222-1222, but should only be called in poisoning instances that are not immediately life-threatening. If it’s a critical poisoning call 911. If phones are unavailable, seek help from a neighbor. You do this by shouting, if possible, so as not to leave the victim unattended.

Obtain Emergency Medical Assistance From A Remote Location

Before embarking on any wilderness outing to a remote location, be sure to inform a trusted adult of your plans. Tell them the trip’s location and expected duration so that in an emergency situation they will be able to contact and dispatch rescue services to you. 

Often, you will be able to contact emergency personnel by cell phone. However, if you are unable to do so but are relatively close to civilization, you should send people back in vehicles who will call for help from the nearest phone.

If lost, do not leave your vehicle or campground, since larger objects are more likely to be found by rescue personnel. Call for help and make lots of noise to attract rescuers, especially if you hear or see signs of other people nearby. Signal fires should only be used as a last resort. Do not start a forest fire!

For getting fully prepared to camp safely, I’d highly recommend earning your Camping merit badge. To get started, check out my Ultimate Guide To The Camping Merit Badge!

1c) Demonstrate the precautions you must take to reduce the risk of transmitting an infection between you and the victim while administering first aid, including the safe disposal of used first aid supplies.

Contact with bodily fluids can lead to the transmission of germs and pathogens. These pathogens can cause illness and infection. One should always treat bodily fluids with caution and use protective barriers like gloves or CPR masks to prevent contact, when possible. Never use your bare hands to prevent bleeding, as this could put both you and the victim at risk of infection.

Make sure, after administering first aid, to safely disinfect or discard all contaminated items and thoroughly wash your hands with soap. To avoid infecting others, put biological waste in designated receptacles or bag it twice before disposal.

1d) Demonstrate evaluation of and management of a patient’s airway and breathing.

Evaluating and managing a patient’s airway and breathing is one of the most important skills in first aid, as permanent damage most often begins at just 4 minutes without air. If you ever come across someone who may be unconscious or struggling to breathe, here’s what to do:

• First, check for responsiveness. If they don’t respond, it’s time to open their airway.
• Use the head-tilt, chin-lift, or jaw thrust maneuver, placing one hand on their forehead to tilt their head back while using two fingers on their chin to lift it. This helps prevent the tongue from blocking airflow.
• Then, check for breathing by looking for chest movement, listening for breath sounds, and feeling for air on your ear/cheek.
• If they’re not breathing normally, start CPR immediately with chest compressions at a rate of 100-120 per minute.

Below is a quick tutorial (3:29) showing how to position and evaluate a patient’s airway:

If the person is breathing but struggling, be prepared to act fast! Signs of respiratory distress include wheezing, gasping, or bluish skin. If they’re choking, perform the Heimlich maneuver until the object is expelled. For infants, alternate between back blows and chest thrusts to clear the airway. If available, provide supplemental oxygen and monitor their condition once the object is dislodged.

1e) Demonstrate a thorough examination of an accident victim.

When examining any accident victim, your goal should be to quickly identify serious injuries. Start by talking to the victim to check their awareness. Ask their name, if they’re having trouble breathing, if they can wiggle their toes, and if they feel pain anywhere. These questions help assess their airway, breathing, spinal function, and potential hidden injuries.

Next, perform a head-to-toe exam, looking for bleeding, swelling, or deformities. Check the head and neck for injuries, ensuring their airway is clear. Examine the chest by feeling the ribs and sternum for pain or instability, and listen for signs of uneven breathing that could indicate a lung injury.

Finally, check their pulse to assess circulation and possible shock. If you suspect spinal injuries, do not move the victim. Keep them still and wait for emergency responders. Stay calm, be thorough, and act quickly – this assessment could be valuable info for first responders and potentially save a life! 😀

You may not get into this much detail, but below is a fantastic video (2:17) walkthrough of a first responder trauma assessment.

1f) Discuss why shock is an emergency.

Shock is a life-threatening emergency because it means the body isn’t getting enough blood flow, which can lead to organ failure and even death if untreated. When someone is in shock, their brain, heart, and other vital organs aren’t receiving enough oxygen, causing symptoms like pale skin, hyperventilation, confusion, dizziness, and a weak pulse.

Shock can result from quite a few different injuries: severe bleeding, heart problems, infections, allergic reactions, or even extreme dehydration all can cause shock. No matter the cause, it must be treated immediately. If you suspect shock, lay the person down, elevate their legs (unless there’s a spinal injury), keep them warm, and call 911. Staying calm, getting them talking and reassured, while ensuring first responders are on the way is the best way to handle shock! 😀

Helpful Link: Check out this succinct guide from the Mayo Clinic and this more detailed article from the Cleveland Clinic to learn more about recognizing and rendering first aid for shock!

1g) Define the term triage and describe examples of triage situations that you may encounter.

In a situation where multiple people are injured, triage refers to the process of determining the extent of each individual’s injuries, then prioritizing their order of treatment based on severity. Basically, you’ll assess how injured each of the victims are, then treat those with life-threatening injuries before those with minor injuries so that the most people can survive.

There are different types of triage techniques, but they almost all rely on grouping patients into 3 main categories. Watch the walkthrough (6:09) below for an in-depth understanding of the SALT Triage system:

To recap what you’ve just learned, triaging is done when there is insufficient medical personnel to ensure the most survivors. To properly triage, you must first assess the victim’s condition. First, according to the National Library of Medicine, examine these four factors:

• Airway
• Breathing
• Circulation/Coma/Convulsion
• Dehydration (severe)

If the victim is critically at risk in any of these areas, they’re deemed an ‘emergency (Red)’ case and receive treatment as soon as possible. If the victim is exhibiting symptoms that appear not to be immediately life-threatening, they are deemed as a ‘priority (Yellow),’ and receive treatment following the emergency cases. Non-urgent issues are placed into ‘queue (Green)’ and are handled after the priority cases.

Preparing for First Aid Emergencies. Do the following:
2a) Obtain a copy of the Scout Annual Health and Medical Record and discuss the importance of the form including information on immunizations, allergies, medications, health history, and medical examinations to providing first aid at Scouting events.

Getting a copy of your Scout Annual Health and Medical Record (AHMR) is one of the best ways to be prepared for personal medical emergencies that could arise! Especially if you have allergies or preexisting conditions, having this document will help you to avoid risky accidents. 🙂

The best way to obtain your form is to ask your parents or guardian, as they likely filled it out when you joined Scouts or before a recent campout. If they can’t find it, another option is to ask your Scoutmaster or troop leadership. They usually keep copies for outings and can likely provide yours if needed.

This form is important because it includes immunizations, allergies, medications, health history, and medical exams, all of which help first aid responders make quick and solid decisions in an emergency.

• For example, if a Scout has a severe allergy to bee stings or peanuts, the form will indicate if they carry an EpiPen and how to respond.
• Also, if a Scout is on daily medications or has a history of asthma, diabetes, or heart conditions, knowing this ahead of time also allows leaders to monitor for warning signs and act proactively!

Part of being prepared also comes down to knowing your medical history and the increased risks you could potentially face. This helps you to make better decisions and get the right first aid treatment if an emergency ever does occur!

2b) Using checklists provided in the First Aid Merit Badge pamphlet or ones approved by your counselor, do the following:
1. Assemble a personal first-aid kit for hiking and backpacking. Demonstrate the proper use of each item in your first-aid kit to your counselor.

Building a personal first-aid kit for hiking and backpacking is a must-have skill for any Scout! Your kit should be lightweight, compact, and include essentials for treating minor injuries and managing emergencies until help arrives. Below is a solid list based on the First Aid Merit Badge pamphlet and commonly approved gear:

To demonstrate the proper use of your first-aid kit, practice basic first-aid techniques and have your counselor supervise. For example, wrap an elastic bandage around a buddy’s “sprained” wrist, or use a triangular bandage to make a sling. If you’re currently unsure how to use certain items, don’t worry – you’ll learn as you continue with my guide! 😀

2b-2) With your counselor, inspect a unit, home, vehicle, or camp first-aid kit and discuss your findings.

Now that you’ve assembled your personal outing first-aid kit, it’s time to take your skills a step further. With your counselor, inspect a unit, home, vehicle, or camp first-aid kit and compare it to your own. Look for missing or expired items, check if the supplies are well-organized, and discuss how the kit is suited for different emergencies.

Ask yourself: Are there any items that are different from your personal kit? What improvements could be made? Should anything be replaced? By analyzing a larger first-aid kit, you’ll gain a better understanding of how different kits prepare you for different situations. For more info, here’s Scout Life’s article on How To Assemble a First Aid Kit!

Old Requirement: Prepare a first-aid kit for your home.

As a bonus, the First Aid requirement from a previous year asked you to learn about some of the first aid essentials you’ll need in your home and vehicle. I’d suggest starting with this resource from the Red Cross. For a helpful visual, check out the following video (4:05):

The picture below gives you an example of what you might typically find in a great first-aid kit. The Survival First Aid Kit I mentioned earlier has all of these things and more, so I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for a compact and dependable first aid kit. Below are the elements of a great first aid kit, with each item number corresponding to the item’s name:

At the very least, the first aid kit you purchase should be equipped with:

You can check your troop’s first aid kit against this list to see if anything should be added. Remember to replace your first aid kit’s contents every few years, as most first aid supplies expire!

Wounds with No External Bleeding. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these wounds:
3a) Closed wounds, such as a bruise (contusion) or a hematoma

A closed wound occurs when an injury causes bleeding under the skin without breaking it. The most common types are bruises (contusions) and hematomas, which are larger areas of pooled blood in tissue. While both are painful, bruises typically cause skin discoloration and swelling, while hematomas form swollen lumps that take longer to heal.

To treat a closed wound, follow the R.I.C.E. method:

1. Rest: Keep the injured area still.
2. Ice: Apply an ice pack (wrapped in cloth) for 15-20 minutes every hour.
3. Compression: Lightly wrap with an elastic bandage.
4. Elevation: Raise the area above heart level to reduce swelling.

To reduce the risk of closed wounds, wear protective gear during sports, be mindful of surroundings to avoid falls or collisions, and strengthen muscles to reduce injury risk. Most bruises heal on their own, but larger hematomas or deep tissue injuries may fracture the bones beneath and should be checked by a doctor.

3b) Superficial, partial thickness, and full thickness thermal (heat) burns or scalds

Open flames and other sources of heat can be dangerous and cause burns. However, depending on the type of burn you’re treating, first-aid methods can differ. Here are the 3 main types of burns you should know:

• Superficial (First-Degree) Burns: Red, painful skin without blisters (like a mild sunburn).
• Partial-Thickness (Second-Degree) Burns: Red skin with blisters, swelling, and severe pain.
• Full-Thickness (Third-Degree) Burns: White, blackened, or leathery skin with possible numbness due to nerve damage.

For superficial and partial-thickness burns, immediately cool the area under cool (not ice-cold) running water for at least 10 minutes. If running water isn’t available, use a cool, wet cloth. Cover with a sterile bandage and avoid breaking blisters. While it was recommended in the past, you should not apply ointments (until days later), butter, or ice, as they can worsen the injury. If the burn is large or on the face, seek medical help.

For full-thickness burns, you should not try to cool the wound. Instead, cover it with a loose, dry dressing and call 911 immediately for professional medical help. In severe cases, they may need to graft new skin to the wound. Do not remove burned clothing stuck to the skin. Be sure to treat for shock by keeping the person warm and monitoring their breathing.

To prevent burns, always use caution around open flames, hot surfaces, and boiling liquids. To avoid the most common mistakes, wear protective gear when handling hot objects, keep pot handles turned inward on stoves, and use sunscreen to prevent sunburns. By staying aware and practicing safe habits, you can prevent most burn injuries before they happen! 🙂

On a final note, here’s a quick and informative video (4:25) giving a deeper look at the types of burns that are out there and their treatments. This may be beyond the scope of what you need to know in Scouting, but it never hurts to be extra-prepared!

3c) Chemical burns

Chemical burns happen when the victim comes into contact with strong acids or other corrosive substances. Symptoms include redness, irritation, burning pain, swelling, and in severe cases, blistering or peeling skin. If the eyes are affected, vision problems can occur. These burns can be serious, so acting fast is super important!

To treat a chemical burn, evacuate the area and immediately flush the wound with cool, running water for at least 15-20 minutes. Remove any contaminated clothing or jewelry, but don’t apply creams or neutralizing agents. Instead, it’s recommended to just rinse with water. If the burn is severe, widespread, or involves the eyes, seek medical help immediately.

To prevent chemical burns, always wear protective gear, handle chemicals carefully, and store them properly. Never mix cleaning products, as some combinations (such as bleach and ammonia) release toxic fumes. Knowing how to prevent and respond to chemical burns can help you stay safe in any situation.

3d) Electrical burns

Electrical burns can be hard to identify because the worst damage often happens under the skin. While you might see small entry and exit wounds (typically on the hands and feet), the real danger is internal. Symptoms can range from skin discoloration, numbness, and burns to more severe effects like weak pulse, breathing trouble, or unconsciousness.

If someone suffers an electrical burn, never touch them if they’re still in contact with the power source! First, turn off the power or use a non-metallic object (like a wooden broom handle) to separate them. Call 911 immediately, check for a pulse and breathing, and start CPR if needed. Once they’re safe, cover any burns with a dry, sterile dressing while waiting for EMS.

The best way to avoid electrical burns is to respect electricity. Always assume wires are live, keep water away from outlets, and never overload circuits. If you see a downed power line, stay at least 30 feet away and call 911 for help. Also, inspect power cords regularly, as frayed wires can cause shocks or fires. Most of all, never stick anything that isn’t a plug into a power socket!

3e) Sunburn

Sunburn might seem like just a small annoyance, but it’s actually a sign of skin damage that can lead to peeling, pain, blisters, and even long-term risks like skin cancer if gotten regularly. Symptoms usually include red, hot, and tender skin, along with swelling, dehydration, or in severe cases, fever and chills.

If you feel yourself getting sunburned, move to the shade and drink lots of water. To treat a sunburn, apply a cool compresses, aloe vera gel, or another after-sun lotion to soothe the burn. Don’t pop blisters, and if you feel dizzy or nauseous, seek medical help ASAP.

Prevention is the key, so always wear sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and reapply every 2 hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Cover up with hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective clothing, and try to avoid direct sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM, when UV rays are strongest. By being protected and a little proactive, you can keep your skin healthy and unharmed! 😀

3f) Snow blindness

Snow blindness is basically like a sunburn on your eyes caused by UV rays reflecting off snow. Symptoms include pain, redness, watery eyes, blurry vision, light sensitivity, and sometimes even temporary vision loss. If this happens, get out of the sun, rest in a dark space, use cool compresses, and avoid rubbing your eyes. Fortunately, most cases heal in 24-48 hours but seek medical help if vision problems persist.

To prevent snow blindness, wear UV-protective sunglasses or goggles. If you don’t have eyewear, squint or look away from the brightest areas to reduce exposure. Your eyes can burn just like your skin, so stay aware and avoid overexposure, especially on bright days with lots of snow around to reflect light!

3g) Immersion foot, frostnip, frostbite, and ice burns

Immersion foot (also known as trench foot), frostnip, frostbite, and ice burns are all conditions resulting from cold or moisture exposure, but they vary in severity and treatment. You’re probably already familiar with these, even if you don’t know them by name. Here’s a brief overview:

• Immersion foot (trench foot): This is caused by prolonged wet, cold conditions, leading to numbness, tingling, swelling, and pale or wrinkled skin. To treat, dry and warm the feet gradually and avoid walking if severe.
• Frostnip: A mild cold injury where skin turns pale, feels numb, and tingles but doesn’t freeze. To treat, warm the area with skin-to-skin contact (such as rubbing your hands together) or warm (not hot) water.
• Frostbite: This is much more serious, and occurs when skin and tissue freeze, turning white, hard, and numb. In severe cases, skin blackens and dies. If you see signs of frostbite, move to a warm place, rewarm with warm water (not direct heat), and seek medical help. Do not rub the skin!
• Ice burns: Ice burns are caused by direct contact with ice or cold metals, leading to redness, numbness, and blisters. You treat these by warming the area gradually with lukewarm water.

The best way to avoid cold-related injuries is to be prepared with the right outdoor gear. Also, wear insulated, waterproof boots and gloves, change out of wet clothing immediately, and use layers to trap heat. When in extreme cold, keep moving to maintain circulation, and avoid very tight boots or gloves that restrict blood flow. If you notice numbness or tingling, warm up indoors ASAP!

3h) Abrasions, such as chafing and rope burns

Abrasions, like chafing and rope burns, happen when skin gets rubbed raw from friction. As a Scout, this would most often occur during long hikes where your clothes rub uncomfortably, causing the “hot spots” to get inflamed. Rope burns are more frequent when you’re doing something like belaying and accidentally grab the rope to slow you, causing it to move quickly through your hands and remove skin. While usually minor, these injuries are painful and can lead to infection. To treat an abrasion:

1. Clean the wound: Gently wash with soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria. Avoid scrubbing, as this can irritate the skin. If the skin is peeling or blistered but still pretty attached, while tempting, do not peel it off.
2. Apply antiseptic: Use antibiotic ointment to prevent infection and keep the area moist for faster healing.
3. Cover if needed: For deep or exposed abrasions, use a clean bandage to protect the wound. Let minor chafing breathe to heal naturally.
4. Soothe the pain: Aloe vera, petroleum jelly, or anti-chafing creams can help reduce discomfort and speed recovery.

To avoid chafing, wear moisture-wicking clothing, stay dry, and use anti-friction balms (amazon product link) in high-risk areas like thighs or underarms. For rope burns, wear gloves when handling ropes and avoid sudden, forceful pulls. If an abrasion gets red, swollen, or infected, seek medical help!

3i) Blisters on the hands, feet, buttocks, and shoulders

Blisters form when friction, heat, or moisture cause the skin to separate, trapping fluid inside. This often happens on feet from hiking, hands from using tools or ropes, shoulders from backpack straps, and even buttocks from long bike rides or paddling (although this one never happened to me 😛 ).

If you get a blister, try not to pop it! Instead, cover it with a blister pad, moleskin, or bandage to reduce friction. If a blister is large, painful, or likely to burst, clean a needle with alcohol, pierce the edge from the side, right above where it meets the skin, and gently drain it. However, don’t remove the top layer of skin. Keep it clean, dry, and covered, and watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus.

To prevent blisters, avoid repetitive movements in damp clothing. Often, this means wearing moisture-wicking socks, breaking in new shoes before long hikes, using gloves, and adjusting gear straps to avoid rubbing. If you feel a hot spot forming, tape it early before it turns into a full blister. Blisters are one of the most common injuries in Scouting, so being prepared will really help!

3j) Puncture wounds from splinters, rope splinters, nails, and fish hooks

Puncture wounds occur when sharp objects break the skin. While they might look small, these wounds can be prone to infection and deep, so proper first aid is essential! Common puncture wounds include wood/rope splinters, stepping on nails, or getting hooked while fishing. If untreated, dirt and bacteria can get trapped inside, leading to infection or even tetanus in serious cases.

For small splinters, clean the area with soap and water, then use sterilized tweezers to remove the foreign object. If the splinter is deep, soak the area in warm water or apply a band aid with an antiseptic like bacitracin for a few hours/days until the area is wrinkly and the splinter is more easily able to work its way out.

For nails or fish hooks, don’t pull them out normally if they’re deeply embedded, as this can cause more bleeding and damage. Instead, clean around the wound, control bleeding, and seek medical help. When removing a fish hook that isn’t too deep, use the “string-yank” method (loop fishing line around the hook, push down, and pull quickly). Here are 2 great videos that are under a minute to show you how it’s done:

For fish hook first aid, it is not recommended these days to pass the hook fully through the outer end of your skin and cut the barb (what I learned years ago), as this causes excessive damage and is often done incorrectly. If in doubt, especially in the case of a nail wound, seek professional medical help from a trained professional.

To prevent puncture wounds, wear gloves when handling rope or wood, check your path for nails or sharp objects, and be careful when unhooking fish. If a deep puncture occurs, you should go to a hospital for a tetanus shot and to get the area checked out, especially if your last tetanus shot was more than five years prior.

3k) Rash from poisonous plants

Brushing against poison ivy, oak, or sumac can leave you with an itchy, red rash (fun fact: this is caused by the plant’s urushiol oil). Symptoms of redness, swelling, blisters, rashes, and intense itching will usually occur 4-48 hours after contact. While the rash itself isn’t contagious, urushiol can spread if it’s still on your skin, clothing, or gear.

If exposed, wash the area immediately with soap and cool water to remove the oil. Apply hydrocortisone, use an antihistamine, or periodically rewash with a calamine soap to ease itching. Avoid scratching to prevent infection, and see a doctor if the rash is severe or near your eyes or mouth. To prevent exposure, learn to identify poisonous plants, wear protective clothing, and wash exposed gear.

3l) Bug bites of chiggers, ticks, mosquitoes, and biting gnats

Bug bites can be itchy, painful, and even dangerous if the insect is transmitting a disease. Mosquitoes leave red, itchy bumps and can carry illnesses like West Nile or malaria. Chiggers burrow into the skin, causing intense itching and red welts. Biting gnats create small, painful spots that can be widespread. Ticks dig into skin deeply and can spread Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

To treat mosquito, gnat, or chigger bites, wash the area, apply anti-itch cream, and avoid scratching to prevent infection. If you find a tick attached, use fine-tipped tweezers to pull it straight out without twisting. Then, clean the bite, save the tick in a jar, and monitor for rash or flu-like symptoms. If you have symptoms, go to the doctor and bring the tick with you for diagnosis. To prevent bites, wear long sleeves, use insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), and avoid tall grass or stagnant water.

3m) Bee stings

Bee stings are painful, swollen, and itchy, but for some people, bee stings can also trigger serious allergic reactions. If stung, stay calm and move away to avoid more stings. Check for a stinger, and if found, remove it by scraping with a credit card or fingernail. Don’t pinch it, as that can release more venom. You can also use a venom extraction tool for these types of wounds, or any other venomous bites (link is an Amazon kit example)! Afterward, wash the area, apply a cold compress, and use antihistamine or hydrocortisone cream to reduce swelling and itching.

If the person has difficulty breathing, swelling outside of the sting site, dizziness, or nausea, it could be an allergic reaction (also commonly called anaphylaxis). In this case, call 911 immediately and use an EpiPen if available (if there’s no EpiPen, taking an antihistamine can help temporarily delay allergic reactions). Bees very rarely sing unless provoked, so to prevent stings, avoid sudden movements around bees. Also consider skipping bright-colored clothing or sweet scents, as these can attract bees.

3n) Bites of spiders

Most spider bites are harmless, and leave just minor swelling, redness, and itching. However, bites from venomous spiders like the black widow can be more serious. Black widow bites might cause muscle cramps, nausea, and even severe pain (fortunately, fewer than 1% of black widow bites are fatal 🙂 ). If you don’t know what bit you, keep an eye on the area. If it gets worse, turns black, or you start feeling sick, seek medical help ASAP.

For minor bites, wash the area, apply a cold compress, and take an antihistamine to reduce swelling and itching. If you suspect a venomous bite, don’t wait – get to a doctor immediately! To avoid getting bitten in the first place, shake out your shoes, gloves, and clothes before putting them on, and be extra careful in dark, undisturbed areas like woodpiles, sheds, or under logs.

3o) Sting of a scorpion

A scorpion sting can be painful, swollen, and tingly, but most aren’t dangerous unless you’re stung by a venomous species. In rare cases, venom can cause numbness, muscle twitching, difficulty breathing, or even seizures. If symptoms spread beyond the sting site, seek medical help immediately.

For mild stings, wash the area, apply a cold compress, and take pain relievers like ibuprofen. Avoid pressing or squeezing the sting, as this can spread venom. To prevent stings, like with spiders, shake out your shoes, sleeping bags, and gear before use, and be cautious when moving rocks or logs.

3p) Bite of a pet or wild mammal or human

Bites from pets, wild animals, or even humans can be especially dangerous due to the risk of infection and diseases like rabies. If bitten, wash the wound immediately with soap and water for at least 5 minutes, then apply antibiotic ointment and cover with a clean bandage. If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or from a wild animal, seek medical help ASAP.

For wild animal bites, rabies is a serious concern. If you can’t confirm the animal is vaccinated, go to a doctor immediately. Even human bites can lead to serious infections due to bacteria in saliva. To prevent bites, always approach animals with caution, never feed wild animals, and if dealing with an aggressive pet or person, create distance and stay calm.

3q) Bite of a venomous snake.

Snake bites can cause intense pain, swelling, and even life-threatening symptoms, so acting fast is crucial. First, stay calm and move away. Panicking increases your heart rate, which spreads venom faster. Call 911 immediately, then keep the bite area still and below heart level to slow venom movement. If available, use a venom extractor tool (same Amazon kit as I linked for bee stings!) to buy more time for EMS to arrive.

While waiting for EMS, remove any tight clothing or jewelry, as swelling can happen fast, and wash the bite with soap and water to lower infection risk. If possible, try to remember what the snake looked like. Most venomous snakes have triangular heads and slit-like pupils, while non-venomous ones usually have rounded heads and round pupils. However, don’t waste time trying to identify the snake if it delays medical care.

While these treatments were recommended in the past, they’ve since been debunked. Here are the main snake bite myths to avoid:

• Do not try to suck out the venom or cut the wound. This makes things worse.
• Do not apply ice or a tourniquet. It can cause more tissue damage.
• Do not try to catch or kill the snake. Focus on getting medical help.

The best way to avoid a bite is prevention. Watch where you step, wear boots and long pants in snake territory, and never mess with a snake, even if you think it’s harmless. If bitten, getting medical help fast and using an antivenom is your best shot at a full recovery.

Bleeding Wounds. Describe the symptoms and signs of, show first aid for, and explain prevention of these wounds:
4a) A nosebleed.

A nosebleed (also called epistaxis by medical professionals) happens when blood vessels inside the nose break, leading to bleeding from the nostrils. It can be caused by dry air, nose picking, allergies, injury, or even high blood pressure. While most nosebleeds are minor, heavy or frequent bleeding might signal a bigger issue and should be checked out by a doctor.

The most frequent type of nosebleed you’ll likely encounter is from blunt force. I don’t know about you, but I’ve tripped and hit my nose more times than I’d like to admit 😛 . Luckily, I “nose” first aid for this injury, so if you ever find yourself with a nosebleed, you’ll be prepared:

1. Stay calm and sit up straight: Tilting your head back can cause blood to go down your throat.
2. Pinch the soft part of your nose: (just below the bony bridge) and hold for 10-15 minutes.
3. Lean forward slightly: This keeps blood from entering your airway.
4. Apply a cold compress: Put this on the sides of your nose or the back of your neck to slow bleeding.
5. Avoid blowing your nose: Let the blood clot by avoiding nose-blowing for a few hours after the bleeding stops.

To prevent nosebleeds that aren’t caused by impact, keep your nasal passages moist by using a humidifier or saline spray, especially in dry climates. Avoid picking your nose or blowing too hard, as this can damage blood vessels. Most nosebleeds aren’t serious, but if bleeding lasts longer than 30 minutes, is very heavy, or happens frequently without cause, get it checked out by a professional.

4b) An open wound with mild or moderate bleeding, such as a scratch or a scrape (abrasions), or a shallow cut (laceration).

When you’re out camping, hiking, or just having fun with your troop, scrapes, scratches, and shallow cuts are almost unavoidable. Whether its a fall, a brush with a thorn bush, or you nick yourself with a pocketknife, these minor wounds can still get infected if not treated properly. Don’t worry though, because with the quick first aid outlined below, you’ll be back out there no time:

1. Sanitize: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before touching the wound.
2. Clean the wound: Use soap and water but avoid hydrogen peroxide, as it can slow healing.
3. Stop bleeding: Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth or gauze to stop the bleeding.
4. Apply antiseptic: Use antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
5. Bandage: Cover it with a bandage to keep dirt and bacteria out.
6. Recovery: Until the wound scabs over, change the bandage daily or if it gets wet or dirty.

The best way to prevent minor cuts and scrapes is to wear long sleeves and pants on hikes, use proper knife safety, and stay aware of your surroundings. If a wound becomes red, swollen, warm, or starts oozing pus, it could be infected, so let an adult or medic know. Taking care of small wounds right away will keep you healthy and safe!

Congrats on Finishing Part 1 of the First Aid Merit Badge!

Wow, we just covered a ton of potentially life-saving info. Great work, Scout! I’m still working on the rest of these requirements, and will link part to of my First aid guide in 2025 as soon as possible. However, may of the answers you need are in my old guides too, so I’d encourage you to use Ctrl+F and search for them in the meantime! 🙂

Once you’re ready to continue on to the old part 2 of the First Aid merit badge click here!

Also, if you’re interested in the difficulty rankings for every Eagle-required merit badge, you can check out my full guide here! PS: The article also links to my other ultimate badge guides that’ll help you to complete your merit badge worksheets.