While it’s convenient to keep a bottle of ibuprofen and box of Band-Aids in a couple places throughout the house for minor scrapes and cuts, every home should have a well-stocked first aid kit located in an easily accessible, central location that everyone knows about. I also carry a first aid kit in my car, as well.
Choose a plastic bin with a snap-close lid, preferably with a handle. A plastic tackle box can be ideal. If the box is not see-through, affix a FIRST AID KIT label on the front and top.
Include the following items in the kit:
- first-aid manual
- sterile gauze
- adhesive tape
- adhesive bandages in several sizes
- elastic bandage
- antiseptic wipes
- soap
- antibiotic cream (triple-antibiotic ointment)
- antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
- hydrocortisone cream (1%)
- acetaminophen and ibuprofen
- tweezers
- small pair of sharp scissors
- safety pins
- calamine lotion
- disposable instant cold packs
- alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol
- thermometer
- plastic gloves (a few pairs)
- flashlight and extra batteries
- mouthpiece for administering CPR (can be obtained from your local Red Cross)
- list of emergency phone numbers, including doctors and dentists
- blanket kept nearby
Always take a first aid kit on vacations, and store extra prescription medicines in it when you travel. In all cases, keep the kit accessible to adults but out of the reach of children.
