A first aid kit is a very important in emergency situations. It makes it so much faster to respond to an unexpected disaster. With presence of mind and your first aid kit, you could help a loved one in the critical seconds following a grave injury. But having a first aid kit is also useful for everyday ailments that do not require professional help, too.
You can probably buy an assembled first aid kit from a pharmacy, or you can make your own.
Making your own first aid kit
If you want to make your own kit, you may use a plastic tool box or a small bag. A plastic lunch box will do, too. Your container must be strong and sturdy, roomy, and easy to open. Avoid using boxes with locks or you may find yourself wasting time looking for the key.
A basic first aid kit should contain the following:
Basic Medicines
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Electrolyte tablets
- Pain and fever reducer
- Anti-inflammatory for pain, swelling, and fever
- Antihistamine for allergic reactions
- Decongestant for stuffy nose or decongestant nose drops
- Cough suppressant
- Throat lozenges
Cuts and wounds
- Adhesive bandages in different sizes
- Sterile gauze
- Cloth bandages
- Adhesive tape
- Antiseptic, such as povidone-iodine
- Scissors
- Safety pins
- Cotton balls and cotton buds
Other important stuff to include:
- Flashlight and batteries
- Tissue
- Lighter
- Thermometer
- Tweezers
- Disposable rubber gloves
- First aid manual
- Asthma inhaler
- Emergency numbers of doctors
- Nebulizer, if your child is asthmatic
- Blood pressure equipment, if someone in the family has blood and heart problems
- Prescribed medications
Please note:
- Place your first aid kit somewhere out of children’s reach, but make sure that all adults know where it is.
- Check the expiration date of medicines regularly so you can replace them when needed.
- Separate medicines using clear plastic bags or Ziploc bags. Labeling each plastic helps keep the kit organized so you can find what you need faster.
- Keep another first aid kit in your car.
- Take a first aid kit when you travel.
- If you can, enroll in first aid seminars or classes.
Remember, mom, it’s always best to be prepared!