A good first aid kit should be serviceable every day as well as in disaster situations. A family first aid kit will be more practical if it is also a medicine chest. Storing all medicines and first aid supplies in one container allows them to be easily included on family trips and outings to provide for most medical and health needs. Store supplies in a closed container, preferably water resistant. Containers that work well are toolboxes, tackle boxes, and plastic storage containers. Keep the kit in a place where it can be used but not easily reached by young children.
Stock your first aid kit with items your family uses on a regular basis and those you may need in an emergency. Keep sufficient quantities for the size of your family and remember to rotate medications.
The following list is a guide only:
antibiotic ointment
burn ointment
anti-fungal cream
anti-itch lotion
regular prescription medications
pain relief tablets
diarrhea medication
laxative
eye drops
ear drops
soap or antiseptic wash
eye wash solution
nose drops
cough medicine
allergy medicine
decongestant
motion sickness capsules or patches
throat lozenges
antacid
alcohol
hydrogen peroxide
petroleum jelly
sunscreen lotion
insect repellent
syrup of Ipecac
baking soda
salt
chemical cold pack
chemical hot pack
surgical or cloth face masks
bandages, plastic strips
ace bandages
gauze pads (4” x 4”)
adhesive tape
bandages, sterile roll 2” & 4” wide
triangular bandage
sterile eye pads
moist towelettes
cotton balls
cotton tipped swabs
sterile burn dressings
tweezers
scissors
single edge razor blade
needles and thread
safety pins
water purification tablets
plastic spoons
pocketknife
eye dropper
thermometer
dental floss
two pair sterile gloves
paper cups or collapsible plastic cup
mylar blanket
hand sanitizer
safety matches
consecrated oil
emergency phone numbers
first aid manual
