First Aid Kit

Keep the first-aid kit in an easily accessible place that is out of the reach of young children.   Check the kits regularly for outdated materials or medicines. Write the date of the last inspection on a card or piece of tape placed on the first aid kit.

Here are instructions to assemble your own complete first aid kit:

Dressings

• adhesive bandage strips (assorted sizes)

• butterfly bandages

• elastic bandages, 2 or 3 inches wide

• adhesive dressing tape

• sterile cotton balls

• sterile eye patches

• sterile gauze pads, 4 by 4 inches

• sterile nonstick pads for use with sterile gauze pads

• stretchable gauze, one roll

• triangular bandage for sling or dressing cover

• oral medicine syringe (for children)

Instruments

• bulb syringe to rinse eyes or wounds

• sharp scissors

• tweezers

Medication

• antiseptic ointment

• antihistamine tablets for allergic reactions

• aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Do not give aspirin to children or teenagers. Aspirin has been linked to a severe illness called Reye's syndrome in young people.

Miscellaneous Items

• first-aid manual

• list of your emergency phone numbers

• airtight packages of antiseptic hand wipes

• candle and waterproof matches

• instant chemical cold packs

• cotton swabs

• disposable latex or nitrile gloves

• flashlight (remove batteries to prevent corrosion and/or accidental discharge) or a diode flashlight with hand generator.  These never require batteries

• mouthpiece for CPR (can get from local Red Cross)

• paper and pen or pencil

• soap

• tissues

• safety pins

• blanket

• sterile eyewash and/or plastic cup

Special Needs Items

• adrenaline or epinephrine, insulin and sugar, or nitroglycerin

Everyday Items to Use in an Emergency

• disposable or regular diapers for compresses, bandages, or padding for splints

• sanitary napkins (same uses as above)

• magazines, newspapers, or umbrella for use as a splint

• a clean dish towel, scarf, or handkerchief for bandages or sling