First Aid Kits

Will you be ready when disaster strikes? Do you have first-aid kits in your home, office, and car? If you do, take a moment to check that the supplies have not run low. You wouldn’t want to crack open your first aid kit in an emergency only to find that you’re missing something important. What’s that? You don’t have a first aid kit? Fear not, these tips should get you on your way…

Depending on your situation, you’ll either want to purchase a ready-to-go first aid kit or assemble your own first aid kit from individual items. While ready-made first aid kits usually come with a case, there are plenty of containers that will work for the do-it-yourselfer. You’ll do well to find something that holds all of the components while sealing tightly to prevent moisture.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security makes some general first aid kit recommendations:

Things you should have:

• Two pairs of Latex, or other sterile gloves (if you are allergic to Latex).
• Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.
• Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect.
• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
• Burn ointment to prevent infection.
• Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.
• Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant.
• Thermometer
• Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.
• Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.

Things it may be good to have:

• Cell Phone
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant

Non-prescription drugs:

• Aspirin or non aspirin pain reliever
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Antacid (for upset stomach)
• Laxative

The American Red Cross makes an additional set of first aid kit recommendations: a blanket, cold pack, plastic bags, a small flashlight (with extra batteries), triangular bandage, and activated charcoal and Syrup of Ipecac (both for use only if instructed by the Poison Control Center).

Remember: it’s essential to check your first aid kits on a regular basis and replace any items that become depleted or are out-of-date.