Being properly prepared with first aid supplies will make it easier and less stressful to deal with an emergency. Always keep your first aid kit in the same place. That way it will be easy to find, even during an emergency.
A first aid kit should include medicines, bandages, and certain tools. Medicines to have on hand include:
- painkillers such as acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen (make sure it is age appropriate)
- an antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide
- antihistamine pills such as Benadryl
- calamine lotion
- a medicine to treat diarrhea
- an antibiotic ointment
- a hydrocortisone cream
- a cough suppressant
- a decongestant such as Sudafed and
- petroleum jelly.
Other first aid kit supplies should include:
- sterile 2 by 2 and 4 by 4 inch gauze pads, and roller gauze
- various sizes of adhesive bandages
- an elastic bandage
- cotton swabs
- non-allergenic adhesive tape
- scissors and tweezers
- a thermometer
- safety pins
- oral medicine syringe for children in the home
- fluids for oral rehydration if children are in the home
- soap
- disposable gloves
- small flashlight and extra batteries
- disposable instant cold packs
- triangular bandage
- first aid manual
- emergency phone numbers
- completed medical consent forms and
- a list of allergies and medicines for each person living in the home.
Store your first aid kit in an area that is easy to get to in case of emergency but is out of the reach of children.
Check the kit regularly. Replace any used items or those that are out-of-date. Should a serious event occur, make sure your family members know how to respond safely and quickly. Holding first aid drills will help your family prepare for emergencies.
For more information and training in giving first aid, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross or visit their Web site at www.redcross.org.
Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.
