First Aid Kits

Every home needs a first aid kit. Many people know they need a kit for their home, but are just not sure what it should contain. So, here’s a first aid kit checklist to ensure that you have a kit that will have everything you need to perform minor first aid treatment in an emergency. The first aid kit contents listed here will work for a home first aid kit or one to take with you when you travel.

Liquid Antiseptic

When you’re at home, you should clean cuts with soap and water, but you need a liquid antiseptic like Bactine when you’re traveling, in case you don’t have a water source. Choose one that contains a mild pain reliever and it will also work well for easing the sting of minor cuts and scrapes.

Gauze Pads

Gauze pads are handy for bandaging cuts too large for a bandaid. They’re also good for cleaning cuts. They come in many different sizes, but your best bet is to buy the largest size and cut them down if needed.

Scissors

You’ll need scissors for cutting gauze pads and adhesive tape when making bandages, but you may also need them for many other things in an emergency. So, it’s wise to have a pair right in your first aid kit. Even if you’re at home, you don’t want to be running around looking for scissors.

Adhesive Tape

Adhesive tape comes in handy for many first aid needs, including forming splints and securing gauze pads.

Ace Bandage
An ace bandage is great for holding injuries in place and relieving the pain of twisted ankles.

Instant Cold Pack

At home you can use ice, but when you’re away from home you may not have access to ice. Instant cold packs can be used just once, so ensure you have a couple in your first aid kit.

Latex Gloves

Latex gloves help keep both parties -- the injured and anyone giving first aid -- safe from bacteria.


Band Aids

Band-aids take care of all sorts of small injuries. Buy a box with a variety of sizes.


Tweezers

Tweezers are great for removing splinters or shards of glass.

Sting And Bite Treatment

In case someone gets a bite or sting, a bite kit will ease the sting. But, if someone in your family has allergies, add Benadryl or an Epi-pen.