We’ve all heard the saying “Fail to prep, prep to fail.” But it can be difficult to know exactly what to prepare for. That’s why we’ve created this all-encompassing list of items you should keep handy in your family first aid kit.
- Up-to-Date First Aid Manual: Even if you’re a first aid expert, having a manual to consult in stressful situations can help to ensure that you’re taking the right steps necessary to administer first aid.
- Emergency List: This list should include nearby phone numbers of police, the nearest fire department, ambulance services, poison control center, your doctors, and family/friend emergency contacts.
- Sterile Gauze Pads of various sizes
- Adhesive Tape
- Band-Aids in various sizes
- An Elastic Bandage
- A Splint
- Antiseptic Wipes
- Antibacterial, Non-scented Soap
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Antiseptic Solution such as Hydrogen Peroxide
- Hydrocortisone Cream (1%)
- Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen
- Extra Prescription Medicines when going on vacation
- Tweezers
- Sharp Scissors
- Safety Pins
- Instant Cold Packs
- Calamine Lotion
- Alcohol Wipes
- Thermometer
- Tooth Preservation Kit: Permanent teeth have the best chance of survival if replaced within 15 minutes, so if an adult tooth is knocked out, the best thing to do is to try to place the tooth back in the socket without touching the root and have the affected individual bite down on gauze to try to reattach it. For a younger child, a tooth preservation kit can help preserve the tooth until brought into see a dentist.
- Plastic Non-Latex Gloves (2-3 pairs)
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- A Blanket
- Mouthpiece for giving CPR
First-Aid Kits should be stored out of reach by children, but easily accessible to adults. Ensure that all adult family members and any caregivers know where the first aid kit is stored.
List adapted from: https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/firstaid-kit.html