Your First Step To First Aid

It usually happens like this: You’re at home, slicing and dicing vegetables for a delicious meal when – ouch! – you accidentally slice your finger instead. Having a well stocked first aid kit will help you handle a minor injury at a moments notice. You should have a first aid kit in your home and inside each family member’s car. Remember also to bring a first aid kit along on vacations and trips.

First aid kits can be purchased at various retail outlets, or you can make one of your own. If making one yourself, be sure to use a sturdy container that is easy to open. Arts and crafts supply boxes are often a good option, as they have handles for easy carrying and usually have plenty of space for everything. Generally, a first aid kit should contain:

• Absorbent compresses (or dressings)

• Various adhesive bandages

• Adhesive cloth tape

• Antibiotic ointment

• Alcohol wipes

• Hydrocortisone ointment

• Aspirin

• Instant cold compress

• Roller bandages

• Tweezers

• Sterile gauze pads

• Scissors

• Non-latex gloves

• Oral thermometer

• First aid instruction booklet

Once the kit is assembled, it is important to review the instruction booklet so that you know how to use the contents of the kit. Be sure to go over this information with older children, too. Store your first aid kits somewhere accessible to adults but out of the reach of small children. Also, be sure to check your kits regularly, and to replace any expired items inside.

Source: American Red Cross