First aid kits should contain items that can treat cuts, scrapes, and injuries such as sprains and burns. They should also include supplies that will disinfect a wound. You can buy a pre-made first aid kit or make one yourself. This article will discuss what first aid items you should keep stocked in your home in case of cuts, burns, or minor injuries.
Bandages and disinfectants
Some of the most common injuries you may suffer at home are scrapes, cuts, and burns. Keeping your first aid kit stocked with items to treat these issues is important.
You should clean and disinfect a cut before you cover it. You must wash your hands before you clean a cut or touch a burn, but it is a good idea to keep latex gloves in your first aid kit, too. To clean and disinfect a scrape or wound or soothe a burn, you will need:
- Gauze
- Antiseptic wipes
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic ointment
- Hydrocortisone cream
There are different types of bandages you will need to cover a cut, and the type and size of bandage you use will depend on the severity of the scrape or cut. You should have the following types of bandages available:
- Adhesive bandages in several different sizes
- Adhesive bandage tape
- Roller bandages
Thermometer
Fevers are a common sign of a cold, flu, or infection. Having a thermometer handy will help you track the fever and see if it is getting better or worse.
Over-the-counter medications
Keeping a supply of over-the-counter medicines such as pain relievers and cough and cold medicine is important. It is better to have these medications available before you need them so that you do not need to go to the store when you are sick and should not be around other people.
Prescription medications
You should keep at least a week’s supply of all the prescription medications you take and a list of the medications and the dosages you need. This can be useful in emergencies and after natural disasters.
Instant heat and cold packs
Instant heat and cold packs will not take up room in your freezer or require the use of a microwave. These are meant to be stored at room temperature and work by being squeezed, which causes the water and salt in the pack to produce a heating or cooling reaction.
Tweezers
Tweezers help remove splinters and shards of glass from your skin. It is important to get splinters and glass out as soon as possible, as these can cause infection.
Emergency blankets
Emergency space blankets will be beneficial if your power goes out in the wintertime and you no longer have heat. These blankets use your body heat to keep you warm.
These are some of the most important first aid items to have in the house. They will keep you prepared for a variety of emergencies.
