Build a Family First Aid Kit

Having a properly stocked and fresh first aid kit at all times truly can save a life. Whether it is a minor cut or an all out crisis situation being prepared is always the first step to survival. So you are probably wondering why I would take the time to write about this when you can just go down to the store and buy a kit. Well there are two reasons – 1: you need to know what items are necessities and 2: you need to be sure that it is customized for your family.

*A first Aid Kit is different from a Catastrophe/Earthquake/Flood Kit. A first Aid Kit is focused strictly on the medical needs of you family.

Items needed in every first aid kit

• Latex Gloves – at least two sets, sterile
• A variety of sizes and shapes of Adhesive Bandages
• Gauze/Dressing – sterile, 2 in and 4 in
• Antiseptic/Antibiotic towelettes
• Burn Cream
• Antibacterial Cream
• At least 3 days worth of each Prescription Medication taken by a member of you family on a daily basis.
• Scissors
• Small Flashlight (store with batteries in a snack sized zipper bag, to prevent corrosion)

Items that are helpful:

• Thermometer
• Tweezers
• Extra Charger for your cell phone
• Acetaminophen
• Ibuprofen
• Antacids
• A solar blanket
• Breathing Barrier (for CPR)
• First Aid Instruction Booklet (filled out with proper local phone numbers)
• Triangle Bandage
• Eye Wash

Mark your calendar once every 3 months to refresh your kit. You need to replenish any supplies that have been used (it is best to always replace items used as soon as possible, but life does happen). You need to check the expiration dates on all medications and creams.

You need to store your kit in an easily accessible place, that is safely out of reach of the small children, be easy enough for a “stranger” to get to (ie a friend is over and you need to direct them to it so they can give you first aid).

You may also want enroll yourself, your spouse and your older children in a first aid/cpr course. It is a very valuable investment. The American Red Cross (www.redcross.org) offers a wide variety of age appropriate course. You can also check with you local recreation department and/or hospitals to see what they may offer. Another great website for Emergencey preparedness is www.ready.gov .

Can you think of something I have left off my list? Please post a comment.