Preparing a First Aid Kit
Before collecting your first aid kit items, it’s a good idea to have a place to keep them all together. A clear bin or other plastic container will work great to keep the contents secure and dry. You can also use a nylon pouch for a travel kit.
Bandages
From simple adhesive bandages for minor cuts to large bandage pads for burns and scrapes, having a variety of bandaging is a necessity. You should also include first aid tape and blister bandages.
Pain Reliever and Fever Reducer
It’s always good to have pain relievers like acetaminophen and ibuprofen on hand for headaches, backaches and other body aches. These will also act as fever reducers for ear infections, sunburn, and colds and flu.
Disposable Gloves
Disposable gloves help guard against infections in first aid situations. They’re especially important in cases where there’s potential for transmission of bodily fluids. Gloves will help minimize the risk of infection and cross-contamination.
Antibiotic Cream
Antibiotic creams are effective treatments for burns, minor cuts and scrapes. Paired with an adhesive bandage, these ointments will help protect the wound from further damage.
Sunscreen and Lip Balm
Many people love a day in the sun, but no one likes a sunburn. Sunscreen will help protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Wind and sun can also affect your lips, so applying a lip balm will help keep them moisturized. Look for a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) rating for added protection.
For sunscreens, look for nongreasy formulas that’ll absorb quickly and are water- and sweat-resistant. Apply liberally 15 minutes before you go into the sun to allow the sunscreen to fully bind to your skin. Reapply every two hours or as needed.
Itch Relief
Whether it’s from insect bites or poison ivy, persistent itching can put a damper on fun activities. Having hydrocortisone cream or spray handy for itch relief will provide comfort.
Cold Compress
A cold compress can help reduce the swelling and pain from bruises and sprains. A compress can also be an aid for burns and fevers. Instant cold packs are disposable, will activate with just a squeeze and stay cold long enough to provide some relief.
Ready-to-Use First Aid Kits
For convenience, you can opt for pre-made first aid kits. These are convenient due to their portability, and you can keep them in a car, tool box or backpack. When considering one of these kits, think about the size of the group that may need it. Choose a kit to suit your needs, whether it’s for two people, a family of five or a group activity, such as children’s sports or a jobsite.
No matter if you created your own first aid kit or have one that’s pre-made, it’s a good idea to periodically check the contents to see if you need to restock any items. You can also check the expiration dates on medicines and ointments to make sure they’re still safe and effective.