HOME FIRST AID SUPPLIES

Being properly prepared with first aid supplies will make it easier and less stressful to deal with an emergency. Always keep your first aid kit in the same place. That way it will be easy to find, even during an emergency. Anyone who is old enough to stay home alone, is old enough to know where the kit is, and how to use it.

A typical kit should include medicines, bandages, and certain tools. Medications should include:

acetaminophen, such as Tylenol
an antiseptic such as hydrogen peroxide
an antihistamine that can be taken by mouth, such as Benadryl
Calamine or Caladryl lotion
a medicine to treat diarrhea, such as Lomotil, Imodium, or Pepto-Bismol and
an antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin

Other first aid kit supplies should include:

sterile 4 by 4 inch gauze pads and roller gauze
various sizes of adhesive bandages such as Band-Aids
an elastic compression bandage, such as an Ace wrap
cotton swabs
non-allergenic adhesive tape
scissors and tweezers
a thermometer
safety pins
soap
disposable gloves
small flashlight and extra batteries
disposable instant cold packs
triangular bandage
first aid manual and
emergency phone numbers

Store your first aid kit in an area that is easy to get to in case of emergency, but is out of the reach of children.

Check the kit regularly. Replace any used items or those that are out-of-date. Should a serious event occur, make sure your family members know how to respond safely and quickly. Holding first aid drills will help your family prepare for emergencies.

For more information and training in giving first aid, contact your local chapter of the American Red Cross or visit their website at www.redcross.org.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File PREP4911.rf2 VRS# 4911 Data Version 7.0