First aid kits are a must-have in any emergency plan. Even though you can buy these pre-made, if you go this route, it’s a good idea to check the kit contents and the expiration dates, just to make sure you have everything you need.
Compile a First Aid Kit
You can, of course, also make your own. The American Red Cross says that a first aid kit for a family of four should include:
- Two pairs of non-latex gloves
- Two 5 x 9 inch absorbent compress dressings
- Adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
- Bandages and gauze
- One 3-inch wide roller bandage
- One 4-inch wide roller bandage
- Five 3 x 3 inch sterile gauze pads
- Five 4 x 4 inch sterile gauze pads
- 25 Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes
- Two triangular bandages
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Antibiotic ointment
- Five antiseptic wipe packets
- Hydrocortisone ointment
- Oral thermometer (be sure it is not glass and does not contain mercury)
- Breathing masks with one-way valve
- Instant cold pack
- First aid instruction book
- Blanket/space blanket
- Personal items, such as
- Medication (including prescriptions and other health-related items)
- Emergency phone numbers
Ready.gov also suggests making sure you have over-the-counter medications on hand, such as:
- Pain relievers
- Anti-diarrheal
- Antacid
- Laxative
If you’re making your own kit, store items in airtight bags and a sturdy container that’s easy to carry, says Ready.gov. The Red Cross also recommends keeping a first aid kit in your car and another in your home.
