A Well-stocked first-aid kit. kept in the easy reach,is a necessity in every home.Having supplies gathered ahead of time will hellp 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 first-aid kit on family vacations.
Choose containers for your kits that are roomy,durable,easy to carry,and simple to open. Plastic boxes or containers are ideal,since they are lightweight,have handles, and offer a lotof space.
Include the folloing 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
- antiseptic solution like savlon
- acetaminophen or paracetamol
- 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 have 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 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 Replace missing items or those that may have become outdated.
Last updated on 01-06-2005
