Question Epi-pen safety

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SayNo2Snow

Contributor
Messages
122
Reaction score
42
Location
Alberta, Canada
# of dives
200 - 499
Hi my DH developed an allergic response to wasp stings this past summer (the yellow jacket variety is what he was stung with), resulting in an anaphylactic response and requiring he now carry an Epi-pen.
I have 3 questions for you folks and especially those that need to carry these pens.

1. His concern is its safe keeping while shore diving. He has a special chill bag if he was to store it in the truck while we're u/w or he purchased a waterproof bullet container to take it u/w with us. The trouble with the waterproof container is it is only large enough to hold the pen itself and not the protective case that covers the pen. He's concerned leaving it in the truck invites it disappearing even if tucked away. What has your experience(s) been? Are small first aid kits generally left alone by those that have had their vehicles rummaged through?

2. My attempt to discover on-line, the likelihood of jellyfish or similar stings causing an allergic reaction is that they would likely not cause one but of course everyone is different. What have you folks seen, heard or encountered?

3. Flying with it in carry-on luggage. We are from Canada and will route through Toronto. According to WestJet and the it is allowed. I was alarmed to see posts that in some countries (not CAN or BON) security personnel have insisted they be in checked luggage. I imagine we are going to be fine on this point but I thought I'd throw it out there.

Finally - any other tidbits I've not thought to inquire about?

Thanks so much! As always your comments and insights are greatly appreciated!
 
Neither insulin nor Epipens are required to be in checked luggage by any airline. Would be quite a liability issue if there was a medical emergency and the passenger was unable to inject.
 
Not exactly what you were asking but if his reaction is bad he should carry two pens. You can get an additional dose or two from a pen, but you have to take it apart....not something most people want to do.
 
I had the same experience with yellow jackets about 6 years ago and prescribed epi pens. I also undergo immunotherapy with venom injections to boost or create an immunity which is supposed to reduce or eliminate a reaction on a future sting.

I carry EpiPens in carry on and never an issue.

I leave the EpiPens in the hotel room when diving in Bonaire. My personal assessment of risk is that it is remote while shore or boat diving. I could be wrong but that’s what I do. I don’t see much risk in the resort as well but think it is higher than at a shore entry or on a boat. The pens would be nearby if needed.

If I were to go on a hike or take a drive through the park I would likely bring them along.
 
You might consider getting one of the larger DryFob containers. DRYFOB - DRYFOB

You might be able to fit both the EpiPen and a PLB in it depending on which PLB and which DryFob.

If the longest length is required you might be able to use the new ACR
PLB & AIS combo.

I'd imagine @Jaan can help out with fit\sizing.
 
thanks for the info. Regrettably only the Dryfob XL is available on Amazon Canada and it isn't long enough. and the TLX from Dryfob won't arrive before we leave. We need an interior length of 6.75"
 
Thanks everyone!

I think we found a solution/work-around. Located a magnetic padded storage box on Amazon.ca that it will fit in with a bit of room to spare... and ordered some small round reusable gel packs which we will freeze and toss inside to keep it cool while on shore dives. We'll just attached the box to a hidden spot on the exterior chassis or maybe to the springs on the underside of the seat.



Great price too!!
 

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Hi my DH developed an allergic response to wasp stings this past summer (the yellow jacket variety is what he was stung with), resulting in an anaphylactic response and requiring he now carry an Epi-pen.
I have 3 questions for you folks and especially those that need to carry these pens.

1. His concern is its safe keeping while shore diving. He has a special chill bag if he was to store it in the truck while we're u/w or he purchased a waterproof bullet container to take it u/w with us. The trouble with the waterproof container is it is only large enough to hold the pen itself and not the protective case that covers the pen. He's concerned leaving it in the truck invites it disappearing even if tucked away. What has your experience(s) been? Are small first aid kits generally left alone by those that have had their vehicles rummaged through?

2. My attempt to discover on-line, the likelihood of jellyfish or similar stings causing an allergic reaction is that they would likely not cause one but of course everyone is different. What have you folks seen, heard or encountered?

3. Flying with it in carry-on luggage. We are from Canada and will route through Toronto. According to WestJet and the it is allowed. I was alarmed to see posts that in some countries (not CAN or BON) security personnel have insisted they be in checked luggage. I imagine we are going to be fine on this point but I thought I'd throw it out there.

Finally - any other tidbits I've not thought to inquire about?

Thanks so much! As always your comments and insights are greatly appreciated!
Whats a DH? Im not familiar with the acronym.
 

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