Building your First Aid Kit

First-Aid Kit

A well-stocked first-aid kit, kept within easy reach, is a necessity in every home. Having supplies gathered ahead of time 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. Also be sure to bring a first-aid kit on family vacations.

Choose containers for your kits that are roomy, durable, easy to carry, and simple to open. Plastic tackle boxes or containers for storing art supplies are ideal, since they're lightweight, have handles, and offer a lot of space.

Include the following in each of your first-aid kits:

first-aid manual
sterile gauze
adhesive tape
adhesive bandages in several sizes
elastic bandage
antiseptic wipes
soap
antibiotic cream (triple-antibiotic ointment)
antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
hydrocortisone cream (1%)
acetaminophen and ibuprofen
extra prescription medications (if the family is going on vacation)
tweezers
sharp scissors
safety pins
disposable instant cold packs
calamine lotion
alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol
thermometer
plastic gloves (at least 2 pairs)
flashlight and extra batteries
mouthpiece for administering CPR (can be obtained from your local Red Cross)
your list of emergency phone numbers
blanket (stored nearby)

After you've stocked your first-aid kits:

Read the entire first-aid manual so you'll understand how to use the contents of your kits. (If your children are old enough to understand, review the manuals with them as well.)
Store first-aid kits in places that are out of children's reach but easily accessible for adults.
Check the kits regularly. Replace missing items or medicines that may have expired.