What Should Be In Your First-Aid Kit?

You want to be prepared when an emergency arises. You can be prepared by keeping a first-aid kit at home, in your car, and taking one with you when you're camping and hiking.

You can buy first-aid kits at drug stores or the American Red Cross or you can make your own.

Whether you buy a first-aid kit or put one together, make sure it has all the items you may need. Include any personal items, such as medications and emergency phone numbers.

Check the kit regularly. Make sure it has a small flashlight and that the batteries work. Check expiration dates and replace any used or out-of-date contents.

The contents of a first-aid kit can be dangerous in the hands of young children. Store your first-aid kit in a secure place out of their reach. Keep it out of extreme temperatures.

Here are suggestions for the contents of a first-aid kit:

Activated charcoal (use only if instructed by poison control center)
Syrup of ipecac (use only if instructed by poison control center)
Adhesive tape
Antiseptic ointment
Adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
Stretch bandage
Cotton balls
Burn ointment
Hydrocortisone cream
Liquid antihistamine, like Benadryl
Aspirin for adults
Tylenol for children
Large, square piece of material to make a basic sling
Blanket
Cold pack
Disposable gloves
Gauze pads and roller gauze (assorted sizes)
Hand cleaner
Plastic bags
Scissors and tweezers
Triangular bandage
Prescription medications in child-proof bottles
Epi-pen for h/o food or bee allergies
Eye wash
First aid manual, including basic CPR instruction

Also, talk to your doctor and tell him/her that you are making a first-aid kit. See if they have spicific reccomendations for you and your family based on your medical history.

A tackle box works well for storing the first-aid supplies. They are lightweight, have handles for easy carrying, and generally have trays or swing-out sections for storing small items.