A first aid kit is a must-have in any house since it ensures that you can deal with emergencies. But most people aren’t sure about what to include.
Remember when you got that school project and had to create a dummy first aid kit or when you would do doctor roleplays with your siblings as a child.
Can you recall what all you included in your kit?
If you can’t remember, fret not; this article will help you out and ensure that you are always equipped with all necessary items for any emergencies that may arise.
What Should a Standard First Aid Kit Contain?
- A disinfectant
After injuries, it’s essential to remove any dirt and debris to prevent infection.
- Adhesive bandage
Accidents do occur. Even if you don’t have kids or aren’t constantly bumping into things, waterproof Band-Aids or Hansaplast are helpful for various scenarios. For instance, in cases of shoe bites.
- Crêpe bandages
Crêpe bandages are essential to help with sprains.
- Gauze dressing
A gauze dressing is needed for infected wounds or burns that need packing.
- Safety pins
Safety pins are useful for various purposes, including wardrobe emergencies, and when the clasp on your crêpe bandage breaks, you require something to keep the dressing in place.
- Scissors
We believe this one is self-explanatory. Just make sure you don’t cut yourself. If you have minor children, do not get a very sharp one, for gauze isn’t difficult to cut.
- Tweezers
Although most people remove a splinter with a safety pin, you should always go for tweezers. But, if the fragment appears to be embedded too deeply, see a doctor instead of attempting to remove it yourself.
- Cotton buds and balls
Ensure that they are stored in a clean box within your first-aid kit because cotton can collect dirt easily and cause infection.
- A thermometer
This is a must-have if you have children at home.
- Mosquito repellent (patch, cream, or spray)
To keep dengue fever, malaria, chikungunya, itching bites, and sleepless nights at bay, mosquito repellents are a must-have item for first aid kit refills.
- Pain relievers
Headaches and backaches are among the most prevalent reasons behind individuals missing work worldwide, so keep pain relievers at hand. This can be pain reliever spray, gel, or balms that help you with muscular sprains and more and help you get a good night’s sleep.
- Antiseptic creams
Antiseptics are the go-to for cuts and scrapes that do not require bandaging. Apply and then forget about it. It’s that easy.
- Antihistamines and Antacids
If you have allergies, this will help you stop those sniffles.
Additionally, indigestion is common amongst all. If you’re in a hurry, an antacid syrup can help. But don’t do it all the time as they cause kidney damage.
Conclusion
Check your first-aid kits regularly to ensure that you have all necessary medicines and none have expired and you are always well prepared for any accidents that may occur.
Prepare yourself and your children for medical crises. The Australian Red Cross has various tools available, including workshops to teach youngsters how to understand and use first-aid skills. It’s really important to be aware of the basic first aid items. So, get up and prepare your first aid kit today.
