Player safety is paramount on football fields across the country. A certified athletic trainer is best equipped to provide instant medical assistance, but it’s always a good idea for a coach to have his or her own first aid kit handy.

Football injuries can range from cuts and scrapes to something more serious. Here’s a list of items to pack for practices and game days to be prepared for a wide range of afflictions.

• Band-aids in various sizes
• Bleach and water solution (one part bleach, 10 parts water)
• Cardboard splints, pillows or a commercial splint
• Elastic wraps (two, four and six inches wide)
• Athletic tape (one and two inches wide)
• Finger splints
• Gauze pads
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Isopropyl alcohol
• Instant ice packs
• Latex gloves
• Players’ medical information/history
• List of emergency medical service numbers if 911 service is not available
• Pen light
• Scissors
• Arm sling
• Triple antibiotic ointment
• Wound-care spray
• Ibuprofen
• Benadryl
• Tweezers
• CPR mask

Remember to keep this kit organized, clean and nearby at all games and practices.

The evaluation of any athlete, whether as a part of health evaluations prior to activity or as a diagnosis of an injury as the consequence of sports activities, is specific to that individual and the history and current state of the individual presented.

Advice, diagnosis and treatment are individualized according to numerous factors, including patient health and age information, medical history and symptoms. All athletes should be cleared by a physician or other appropriate medical professional before engaging in physical activities and – after injury, diagnosis and treatment – for return to play.

Dave Weikel is the head athletic trainer for U.S. National Teams. He also is a licensed athletic trainer and certified athletic trainer for St. Vincent Sports Performance in Indianapolis.