Basics of a First Aid Kit

Preparing a First Aid kit for your family is one of the best things you can do when thinking about their health and safety. The only thing you really need to know is what to include inside to be prepared for all kinds of situations, ranging from minor cuts and burns to more serious injuries that can be maintained before the emergency services arrive.

For a basic first aid kit, you will need the following things:

1. A First Aid manual -  While in a stressful, urgent situation you may not want to spend any time flicking through a manual, but it could be the most important item in your kit. Everyone develops first aid knowledge throughout their lives, so chances are you will have a basic idea of what to do when the time comes. Stressful situations can do funny things, causing you to forget the most basic things. Having a manual on hand is a great way to remind yourself of key steps to get you back on track. To develop your skills even further, consider taking a First Aid course; there are many places available in every city so they are always very accessible.

2. Bandages – An obviously important one, have a variety of bandages on hand, different sizes, lengths and shapes for a variety of injuries.

3. Gauze pads – These are another essential as they help to stop bleeding. Make sure to include scissors to cut them and bandages to size.

4. Antiseptic cream -  This is important when dressing a wound as you want to keep it as clean as possible to avoid any infection.

5.  A cold compress is perfect for bumps and bruises that are common with young kids who tend to fall and run into everything. Reduce the pain and swelling by applying some pressure with a cold compress.

6. Aspirin/Paracetamol -  Any kind of basic painkiller is a must have in any First Aid kit, from headaches to muscle pains, they are the cure to all ailments.

7. Tweezers – One of the most common reasons for treating in First Aid is splinter removal. Simple enough injury, but painful none the less, and can end up being a real hassle if you don’t have the right tools to treat it.

There are many other things you can include in your First Aid kit, including a blanket, thermometer, whistle or other medications like antihistamines; you will need to consider where you will use the First Aid kit most often and the types of injuries you will expect to be treating.