Hey all,

There has been a lot of talk about what is the best kind of tape for first aid. I am thinking of getting just athletic tape, because it is easy, and I know its strong because I have tested it climbing crack. Any thing else? Bad-Good of different tapes...Ladies and Gentlemen, DISCUSS!

Whatever tape works I suppose. I use 3M (transpore?) surgical tape.

I have used an "electricians first aid kit" with good success from time to time. That would be black electrical tape...

I second the electricians tape. I use it for all kinds of stuff. sticks great to itself but can be removed; not effected really by water, flexible etc.

Hi all, Am a Veterinarian and we use zinc oxide tape which is a white, waterproof, cloth tape which also has bacteriostatic properties (i.e. retards bacterial growth) this tape is really sturdy and can withstand quite a lot of punishment...(dogs chew on it!!) so i'd look into this tape for your FAK's as it has quite a few uses....

P.S. this is human grade tape.... we just use it for animals

Thanks, and Welcome Newguy!!!

Gills, welcome to the fire new guy. The tape you described sounds interesting. What is it's commercial name and where can we get it?

-Blast, always looking for the newest thing in bandaging

Amazon sells it. Looks to be more of a UK item from google.
Amazon Link

I'll order a roll on my next order unless someone finds a cheaper place.

I believe that's basically the same thing as athletics-tape. Beware if you've got a latex-allergy!

Anyway, avoid the tapes made of paper. Those are only really good for IV's and clinical use, but not for first-aid.


I also use silk tape, which is suited for people with latex-allergies:

Can latex allergies be lethal?

I often think of first aid in terms of SAR and something we call life over limb. If it saves your life out in the bush 4 hours from any kind of help, it's often worth the risk.