Build a First Aid Kit

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Build a First Aid Kit


One important piece of always being prepared is having a first aid kit on hand. Of course you can buy a pre-made kit, which can range in size and complexity, but it is also possible to put together your own personal kit. It is always best to know what you have in your first aid kit, so you can replace the items that you use. Instead of buying a kit, try to make your own - it's actually pretty simple.

You will probably want to make a simple, but well-stocked backpack or pocket sized first aid kit. With a small first aid kit you can always be prepared. Once you make your personal kit, you may want to make one to keep for emergencies in your home.

Your pocket first aid kit should include adhesive bandages of assorted sizes. You will also want to include antibiotic ointment packets, as well as antiseptic wipes. These items are probably the most essential, however, it is also a good idea to include some sting relief or itch relief wipes for insect bites. Antihistamine, for allergies, is also a good idea. You should also include pain relievers, like aspirin.

After your first aid kit is finished you will need to maintain it. Replace items when you use them. In addition, you need to check the expiration dates on the items in your first aid kit - most medical items do have an expiration date like food, and you do not want expired items in your first aid kit. If you have a first aid kit in your home, always remember to check the expiration dates fairly regularly.

If you want to make a family first aid kit you will need a few more items on top of those listed above. You will need items for more extreme cases. Include the following in your family first aid kit: absorbent compress dressings, adhesive cloth tape, a space blanket, a breathing barrier for CPR, an instant cold compress, nonlatex gloves, scissors, roller bandages of various sizes, sterile gauze pads of varying sizes, thermometer, triangular bandages, tweezers and of course a first aid instruction booklet.

All of the items in a first aid kit are important to have on hand just in case. Hopefully you won't need these items, but it is always important to be prepared for the worst case scenario. If you are really interested in first aid there are a variety of classes you can take.