A well-stocked first-aid kit is a necessity in every home. Having everything gathered ahead of time will help you handle an emergency quickly and will keep you calm.
You should keep a first-aid kit in your home and in your car. Remember to also take a first-aid kit on family vacations. Store your kits in easy to access locations that are out of the reach of young children. Children that are old enough to understand the purpose of the kits should know where they are stored.
What You’ll Need
Include the following in each of your first-aid kits:
a splint |
acetaminophen and ibuprofen (acetaminophen is used more as a fever reducer and for pain. ibuprofen, which is also known as Motrin or Advil, can be used for pain that’s caused by inflammation) |
adhesive bandages in several sizes & triangular bandage |
adhesive tape |
alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol |
anti-diarrhea medication, over-the-counter oral antihistamine, syringe, medicine cup/spoon |
antibiotic ointment |
antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide) |
antiseptic wipes |
blanket (stored nearby) / space blanket |
calamine lotion |
cotton balls and cotton-tipped swabs |
disposable instant cold packs |
elastic bandage |
extra prescription medications (if the family is going on vacation) |
first-aid manual |
flashlight and extra batteries |
hydrocortisone cream (1%) |
mouthpiece for administering CPR |
plastic non-latex gloves (at least 2 pairs) |
safety pins |
sharp scissors |
soap and/or instant hand sanitizer |
sterile gauze pads of different sizes |
sunscreen |
thermometer |
tooth preservation kit & plastic bags |
tweezers |
your list of emergency phone numbers including contact information for: your family doctor and paediatrician, local emergency services, emergency road service providers and the poison control centre |
Remember
- Check the kits regularly. Replace missing items or medicines that may have expired.
- Other items you may wish to include:
- Medical consent forms for each family member
- Medical history forms for each family member
- Waterproof flashlight
- Candles and matches
- If you’re flying, be sure to pack the first-aid kit in your checked luggage. Many of the items won’t be permitted in your carry-on bags.
- Check the flashlight batteries to make sure they work.
- Read the entire first-aid manual so you’ll understand how to use the contents of your kits. (If your kids are old enough to understand, review the manuals with them.)
References: http://www.mayoclinic.com | http://kidshealth.org
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