First Aid for Summer: 5 Emergencies to Be Prepared For

Summer Scenarios You Didn’t Know You’d Need First Aid For

Summer is here, and while you’re planning beach trips, BBQs, and outdoor adventures, it’s also the season of unexpected mishaps. Knowing first aid can turn you into the hero of the day – but only if you’re ready.

From jellyfish stings to trampoline tumbles, here are five surprising summer scenarios where first aid knowledge and a well-stocked kit could save the day.

Read on to find out handy first aid information to handle these everyday scenarios - or take advantage of our 20% off sale and book yourself into a first aid course with the code summersafe25!

A bluebottle jellyfish lies on sandy beach.

Jellyfish Stings – The Ocean Surprise

You’re frolicking in the waves when suddenly, a sharp, burning pain strikes. Jellyfish stings can turn a perfect beach day into a horror story.

Quick Fix: Rinse the area with vinegar, not fresh water, to neutralise the sting. Remove tentacles with gloves or tweezers.
What to Add to Your Kit: A small bottle of vinegar and tweezers.
Pro tip: Remember, peeing on a jellyfish sting is a myth! Stick to vinegar and save yourself the awkward beachside gossip.

People gathered around a campfire at dusk, roasting marshmallows..

Campfire Mishaps – S’mores Gone Scorched

What’s better than toasting marshmallows under the stars? But those glowing embers don’t just roast marshmallows – they can roast fingers too.

Quick Fix: Run the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes and cover it with a clean, non-stick dressing.
What to Add to Your Kit: Burn gel or aloe vera.
Pro Tip: If you’re the clumsy one, maybe stick to holding the marshmallows, not the skewer!

Young boy on trampoline in superman pose

Trampoline Tumbles – Bouncing into Trouble

The backyard trampoline seems like endless fun, but one awkward bounce can lead to a sprain, or worse, a broken bone.

Quick Fix: For sprains, remember R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation). For suspected fractures, immobilise the limb and seek medical help.
What to Add to Your Kit: Compression bandages and instant cold packs.
Pro Tip: Bouncing to the moon might be fun, but landing safely is cooler (and less painful).

Two children on a picnic rug, paying with toy bugs

Picnic Panic – Bee Stings and Food Allergies

A sunny picnic can be a feast for you – and the bugs. Bee stings and unexpected allergic reactions can escalate quickly.

Quick Fix: For stings, scrape the stinger out and apply a cold pack. Administer an antihistamine for mild reactions or use an EpiPen in severe cases.
What to Add to Your Kit: Sting relief cream and antihistamines.
Pro Tip: Bees are just after your snacks. Cover your food, and they’ll leave you alone (probably).

Two young girls apply sunscreen at the beach

Heat Exhaustion – Too Much Fun in the Sun

All-day summer fun can lead to dehydration or heat exhaustion without warning signs.

Quick Fix: Move the person to a cool place, offer small sips of water, and cool them down with wet cloths.
What to Add to Your Kit: Electrolyte tablets, such as Hydrolyte, and a thermometer.
Pro Tip: Hydrate like it’s your summer job. Electrolyte drinks aren’t just for athletes – they’re for anyone who’s had too much sun.

Is Your First Aid Kit Summer-Ready?

Having the right supplies on hand can make all the difference in handling these common summer scenarios. Check your first aid kit for:

Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Burn gel or aloe vera
Waterproof bandages
Snake bite bandages
Antiseptic wipes
Tweezers
Compression bandages

Not sure where to start? St John has you covered with a wide range of first aid kits. For a limited time, enjoy 20% off first aid kits to ensure you’re prepared for all your summer adventures.

👉 Book a course today!

Make this summer safe, fun, and unforgettable – for all the right reasons.

A mental health first aid classroom with a trainer speaking to a small group of people

13 August 2026

Mental Health First Aid comes to St John Tasmania

St John Tasmania is introducing Standard Mental Health First Aid training in Hobart, helping Tasmanians build the skills and confidence to recognise and respond when someone may be experiencing a

Read story