You should be prepared for any injury or medical emergency no matter where
you are. It's a good idea to keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in easy
reach in your home or vehicle. Gathering supplies ahead of time will help you
handle an emergency quickly. It's a good idea to carry a first-aid kit
with you or know where to find one whenever you're participating in recreational
activities. Also, make sure you know where to find a first-aid kit at your work.
First-aid kits come in many shapes and sizes. You can them at drugstores or
you can make your own. Some kits are designed for specific activities like boating
or hiking. Whether you buy a first aid kit or make one, make sure that it has
all the items you may need. Include your medications and emergency phone numbers
and check your kit regularly. Here is a list of some items you should have in
a family or vehicle first-aid kit:
Family first-aid kit: |
- cleansing wipes
- various sizes of adhesive bandages
- knuckle bandages
- fingertip bandages
- non-adherent pads
- various sizes of gauze bandages
- various sizes of gauze pads
- a trauma dressing with elastic bandage
- safety pins
|
- a roll of adhesive tape
- triangular bandages
- a pair of scissors
- vinyl gloves
- tweezers
- a pencil
- a notepad
- a rescue sheet/blanket
- a first-aid pocket guide
|
Vehicle first-aid kit |
- cleansing wipes
- various sizes of adhesive bandages
- knuckle bandages
- fingertip bandages
- various sizes of gauze pads
- tongue depressors
- a pair of scissors
- adhesive tape
- A pair of tweezers
|
- a triangular bandage
- various sizes of elastic gauze bandages
- a pressure bandage
- an abdominal pad
- vinyl gloves
- an SOS signal
- cotton-tip applicators
- a rescue sheet/blanket
- a first-aid pocket guide.
|
St. John Ambulance has suggestions for many other first-aid kits including babysitters'
first-aid kits, sport kits, safe play kits and marine kits. Always make sure
you know what's in your first-aid kit and how to use it. Be aware of your
abilities when giving any kind of first aid - the best thing you can do for
yourself or for an injured person is to be trained! Take a first-aid course
in your area.
Additional Resources
Canadian Red Cross
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