First Aid Kit: Beyond the Band-Aid

When you think about a “first aid kit” do you just think about a box of Band-Aids? I’m as bad as my kids when it comes to band aids. I love buying band-aids in all their crazy colors and varieties. My kids love using them. However a first aid kit made up of band aids just won’t do; even if you have every color known to man.

What’s in the box?

In order to have a quality first aid kit you need to be able to address more than just scratches and scrapes. The addition of slings, antiseptic, cold/hot packs, and wraps will enable you to meet the majority of first aid situations you may find yourself in.

Can your kit meet the needs of sprains, broken bones, heavy bleeding, stings and bites? Although it may be a FIRST aid kit, you should be sure that you have enough supplies to keep a wound clean and healing properly.

Remember the injury won’t come to you, so be sure that you’re kit is in a portable container, like a tackle box, small tote, or even in a backpack.

 

Download the spreadsheet First Aid Inventory to keep track of what you already have and what supplies you need to begin purchasing. It’s not a bad thing to over pack your kit.

Are you sure you know how to use this thing?

Remember first aid isn’t just about supplies, its about also about action. Every first aid kit requires knowledge!

The red cross has a fabulous first aid app and lots of videos available to tone your first aid muscles.

 

Obviously training and practice are important, but having a first aid manual in your kit makes sure that knowledge is available,  even when your brain has checked out. You might consider the Safety Mate which will talk you through an emergency, like an electronic dispatcher.

So put your first aid kit in order, flex those medical muscles, and play it safe. Safety may come first, but first aid comes in a close second.

Check out our National Preparedness Month Challenge from years past for more on first aid kits and other medical supplies. You can make a simple DIY first aid kit from items found at the dollar store. It will cost you less than $10.