What would be the makings of a good first aid kit for my home?
I have only a few bandaids and some antibiotic ointment and I want to create a good emergency first aid kit. There are so many products out there and so many different types of ointments and treatments, which ones are the best for cuts, burns, stings, etc...
Thank you for taking your time to answer, I know I could look it up on the web, but I wanted ask here first.
Ok, MeMD, you win! Thank you for taking the time to list these items, I appreciate your caring tone in your answer as well :) You deserve 10 stars!
Public Comments
1. what u have is good add ace bandage and aspirin and some smack and shake ice packs
2. Hey VelaOK,
Here are some things I could think of off hand, things good for the home or your car.
You would want a box or resealable bag that is water proof.
Triple antibiotic ointment packs
Burn ointment
Antiseptic cleansing wipes
Hand sanitizer packs
Chewable aspirin tablets, or regular (Doesn't matter) If you have regular, have some bottled water in the kit.
Plastic adhesive bandages, 3/4" x 3"
Plastic or fabric adhesive bandages, 1" x 3"
Elbow and knee plastic or fabric bandages, 2" x 4"
Junior plastic or fabric bandages, 3/8" x 1-1/2"
Knuckle fabric bandages
Fingertip fabric bandage
Eye patch bandages, 1-1/2" x 1-1/2"
Eye wash/Saline drops
Instant cold compress
Triangular sling/bandage
Trauma pad, 5" x 9"
Gauze dressing pads, 3" x 3"
Gauze dressing pads, 4" x 4"
First aid tape roll, 1" x 5 yds
Gauze roll bandage, 3"
CPR one-way valve face shield
Emergency First Aid Guide - Everyone forgets this, Ha!...See, I almost did. Look how far down on the list it is! Should be #1
Emergency phone numbers - Poison, chemical, burn centers, etc. Let me know if you need further help with these.
Thermometer, one time use
Latex or vinyl exam gloves, several pairs (Some might tear/break) Change between injured persons.
Scissors
Tweezers
Q-tips
Smelling salt***Be careful with this and use only if you know how to!
Tissue/paper towels (The kind that come in small packs)
That's about all I can think of off hand. There are many other things you can add to it as you choose. Like a flashlight/batteries, glow sticks, "Help" emergency flags, Solar blanket, etc.
It all depends on the type of kit you want to have handy. Simple everyday kind of stuff, or something in case of a major accident. Either at home or on the road.
As far as any product being the best, can't really say. Just make sure nothing has expired. Check your kit yearly and replace/replenish expired or missing items.
Well, hope this helps a bit.
Remember....The best and most important thing to do before breaking out that first aid kit is to call...911 first! Then do what you can to help in the meantime.
Take care!
N.B. Unless you just wanted to make your own, they sell many different kits in different sizes and for different situations filled with the proper items. Not sure which is cheaper, buying everything individually, or the kit? But I know it's kind of fun to make your own....Lets hope you never have to use it though!