To put together a great first aid kit, you first need to choose the right container. Ideally, it should be transparent, easy to carry, and large enough to hold all the necessary first aid kit supplies. Once you have the container, the next step is to make a comprehensive list of the basic first aid kit supplies that every kit absolutely needs to contain.
A well-stocked collection of first aid kit supplies is an excellent way to ensure you're prepared to quickly handle all sorts of common accidents. This includes things like insect bites, minor bumps and bruises, falls, burns, and even small cuts that are bleeding. Being ready with the right first aid kit supplies can make a big difference when accidents happen.
You can buy a ready-made kit of first aid kit supplies at most drug stores, but it's also easy to prepare one at home and customize it for your specific needs. For example, you might create one just for household accidents, one for your car, or a small, portable one specifically containing travel first aid kit supplies for when you're on vacation.
List of necessary supplies
The contents of a first aid box can vary quite a bit, but the following are the essential products and basic materials you should have:
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1 bottle of 0.9% normal saline solution: This is used to clean and rinse wounds.
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1 antiseptic solution for wounds, like povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine: Use this to disinfect cuts and scrapes.
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Sterile gauze pads in various sizes: These are for covering wounds.
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2 sterile eye dressings
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3 rolls of conforming gauze and 1 roll of medical adhesive tape: These help to immobilize injured limbs or secure compresses over a wound.
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Disposable gloves, ideally latex-free: Wear these to protect yourself from direct contact with blood and other body fluids.
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1 package of cotton balls: These are handy for applying antiseptic products around the edges of a wound.
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1 pair of blunt-tipped scissors: For cutting tape, gauze, or bandages.
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Tweezers and safety pins
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1 package of adhesive bandages (like Band-Aids) in different sizes: These are used to cover small cuts and minor wounds.
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1 thermometer: To measure body temperature.
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1 bottle of lubricating eye drops: Useful for washing out the eyes if irritating substances get into them.
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Burn relief ointment, such as Neosporin Ointment with Pain Relief or Aquaphor Healing Ointment: These keep the skin hydrated while easing the pain of a minor burn.
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Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or cetirizine: These are common over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can treat various general symptoms and common issues.
A kit with these materials is suitable for almost all homes, schools, and workplaces because it contains what's needed to manage the most common emergencies in those settings.
However, your kit can be adjusted based on specific needs. For instance, if you or your family play sports like soccer or run often, you might also want to add an anti-inflammatory spray or a cold pack/spray to help reduce swelling from muscle or joint injuries.
When you're packing for a vacation, it's also smart to include an extra supply of any regular prescription medications you take. Plus, it's helpful to include common OTC remedies for traveler's diarrhea, motion sickness, or stomach issues, as well as an insect bite relief cream.
Choosing the container
The first step in assembling your first aid kit is choosing the right container for all the supplies. Ideally, it should be sturdy (made of hard plastic), large enough, transparent so you can quickly see what's inside, and easy to carry. This also helps protect the materials from getting damaged.
Any bag or box can be used, though, as long as it's clearly labeled on the outside. Write "First Aid Kit" or draw a red cross so that anyone can quickly identify the correct container during an emergency.
How to keep your kit current
As you place all the supplies inside the container, it's a good idea to make a list that includes the quantity and expiration date for each item. This makes it simple to ensure that materials are replaced right after they are used. It also allows you to check for and replace any products that have expired.