A well-stocked first-aid kit, kept in easy reach,
but away from small children, is a necessity in every home and vehicle. Having supplies gathered ahead of time
and knowing how to use them will help you handle an emergency at a moment's notice. You should keep one first-aid kit in your home and one in each car. Be sure to bring a first-aid kit
with any additional medication that may be needed on family vacations. Your
doctor should be able to recommend the necessary medications and dosages for
you to have with you if you have any questions. Emergency numbers should be
posted where the entire family as well as any sitters you may have in your
home, know where to look. Make sure to have your local Poison Control number
there as well. You don't want to rely on your memory when you will be under
additional stress and pressure of a possible emergency.
Choose containers for your kits that are roomy, durable, easy to carry, and simple to open. Plastic tackle boxes or kid's lunch boxes or containers used for storing art supplies are ideal, since they are lightweight, have handles, and offer a lot of space.
First-Aid Manual
-
List of Emergency Phone Numbers
Syrup of Ipecac
and Activated Charcoal (Call Poison Control or Doctor before using)
Thermometer -
Digital or disposable temp strips
Sterile Gauze
Pads in several sizes and thicknesses
Adhesive Tape
or Cohesive type of wrap to hold gauze in place
Adhesive Bandages in Several Sizes
Conforming
Gauze bandage to wrap
Elastic Bandage (Ace Type)
or Cohesive Type of Bandage that sticks to itself
Antiseptic Wipes
and/or alcohol wipes
Hand Cleansing
Wipes or hand sanitizing gel
Antibiotic Cream or Ointment (Triple Antibiotic or Neo-sporin)
Antiseptic
wipes or solution (like BZK wipes, hydrogen peroxide, or alcohol)
Tweezers or a Splinter Kit
Flashlight or pen light (and extra batteries)
Saline Solution to be used as Eyewash
or irrigation fluid for wound
Benadryl,
Calamine or Caladryl
Lotion
Celox, or your favorite blood stopping product
Pepto Bismol Liquid or Chewables
Acetaminophen and Aspirin
(Aspirin is not recommended for children under age 12)
Extra Prescription Medications (if going on vacation)
After you have stocked your first-aid kits:
Check the kits regularly. Replace missing items or those that may have become outdated. Remember that some bandages have latex that breaks down after about a year, and heat can increase how fast it breaks down.
