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THE WELL-STOCKED FIRST AID KIT

© Kathleen Newton

Does your home have a first aid kit? If so, do you know what's in it? Do you know what SHOULD be in it? Every home should have a first aid kit, with more than just a few bandages and an outdated tube of antibiotic ointment!

A first aid kit is a good place to keep all of your medical supplies. If you keep everything together, you won't be running all over your home in an emergency, trying to remember where you put the Calamine lotion or adhesive tape!

If you stock your first aid kit completely, you will find that you need a bigger container than a 4x4 white metal box with a red cross on the top! A plastic storage container is ideal for use as a first aid kit. Benefits of a plastic storage container include 1. A choice of sizes, 2. The lid seals tight to keep out water (but keep in mind that even the tightest-sealing lid will not keep out little fingers), and 3. The plastic container will not rust, like some metal containers can, if exposed to water.

The size of your first aid kit should be relative to the size of your family. For instance, a family of two adults may find that one box of bandages in their first aid kit is enough to last them for a few months. However, a family of two adults and five children may go through an entire box in a week!

Regardless of the quantity of each item in your kit, be sure to include at least one of every item on the following list.

THE WELL-STOCKED FIRST AID KIT CONTAINS:

*Your family's medical information, including any health conditions, allergies, and medications.

*Emergency phone numbers (TAPE TO THE LID OF THE KIT): family doctors, local poison control center, and local emergency numbers if your area does not have 911 service.

*A basic guide to emergencies and first aid.

INJURY/WOUND CARE SUPPLIES:

*Assorted sized of bandages, including butterfly-type.

*Triangular cloths for wrapping and splinting.

*Gauze: pads and rolls.

*Adhesive tape.

*Elastic wraps.

*Rounded-tip scissors.

*Antiseptic wipes.

*Disposable, instant cold-packs.

*Tweezers.

*Rubber gloves.

*Peroxide for disinfecting wounds.

MEDICINES:

*Aspirin and acetaminophen (Tylenol): make sure you have age-appropriate formulas. Always have at least two aspirin available for heart attack symptoms. Don't give aspirin to children.

*Syrup of Ipecac: used to induce vomiting in cases of poisoning. ONLY use on the advice of a doctor or poison control center.

*Cough syrup, antihistamines, and decongestants: stock different formulas according to the age of your family.