That's why it's a good idea to go through your gear at least annually and check its condition. Good task for the winter!

One particular thing that needs at least annual attention is the first-aid kit. Medications expire and can become ineffective or even harmful; paper coverings of gauze pads and bandaids become yellowed and brittle, compromising sterility; elastic (as in Ace bandages) dies; and so on. Besides, you don't want to find that you've used up all your ibuprofen just when you need it!