
First aid kit essentials: What to include in your kit
January 19, 2015
Why travellers prefer Blue Cross
January 19, 2015
Having a first aid kit at home, in your vehicle and when you are on vacation is important. You never know when a medical emergency could occur, and you may not realize how critical a first aid kit can be until you’re in the position of dealing with an emergency situation. You should have the basic supplies to be able to provide first aid and assist a person in need until an ambulance arrives.
Despite the seemingly obvious benefits of having a first aid kit at home, many people still don’t one. Many have most of the items around the house, but don’t have everything collected in one place. In an emergency situation, time is of the essence, and you usually don’t have the time to look around the house and collect items from various locations in such a situation. Keeping everything in a first aid kit ensures you know where to look for first aid items during an emergency.
Here are the essentials that should be included in your first aid kit:
The more supplies you have in your first aid kit, the better prepared you will be for various situations. Here are some other items you should consider including in your kit:
Include anything else in your first aid kit that you think would be useful. For example, if you have a person in your family with a severe allergy, include a spare epinephrine autoinjector.
Check your first aid kit annually to ensure it is fully stocked. A great suggestion is to couple the inspection of your first aid kit with checking the smoke detectors in your house.
People frequently take out an item now and then over the course of the year, so it’s important to replace the item. You never know when you may need a bandage, ointment or gauze.
Taking a first aid course and learning the basics about first aid could help you save someone’s life. Consider enrolling yourself and your family in a first aid course to ensure you are prepared for emergency medical situations and know how to properly use the resources you have in your first aid kit.