First Aid Kit: The best way to counter emergencies!

A first aid kit refers to a collection of supplies and equipment which are necessary in giving first aid, especially in a medical emergency. Most of the first aid kits contain bandages to control bleeding, equipment for personal protection such as gloves, a breathing barrier to perform rescue breathing and CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation). A first aid kit also contains a booklet which provides instructions on how to perform first aid.

If you have a first aid kit, you would be better equipped to help your loved ones during emergencies. A well-prepared homemade kit is generally better and occasionally cheaper than most of the commercial kits. The contents of a first aid kit must be optimized in accordance with the local conditions. A well-stocked first-aid kit, which is easily accessible, is necessary in every home. If health supplies, medicines and equipments are gathered for future, it will help you in handling an emergency situation with ease. A first-aid kit should always be kept in your home and one in your car too. Always remember to take the first-aid kit on family trips or vacations.

A first-aid kit must necessarily have the following medicines, supplies and equipment:

1. First-aid manual
2. Two pairs of Latex, or other kinds of sterile gloves
3. Sterile dressings to prevent bleeding.
4. Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes which act as disinfectants.
5. Antibiotic ointment and burn ointment to stop infection.
6. Adhesive tapes and bandages different sizes.
7. Eye wash solution required to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant.
8. Thermometer
9. Prescription medications such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers must be included in the first-aid kit. The kit must also contain certain prescribed medical supplies such as glucose as well as blood pressure monitoring equipment.
10. Sterile gauze
11. Antiseptic wipes
12. Soap
13. Antibiotic cream (triple-antibiotic ointment)
14. Antiseptic solution (like hydrogen peroxide)
15. Hydrocortisone cream (1%)
16. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen
17. Extra prescription medications
18. Tweezers
19. Sharp scissors
20. Safety pins
21. Disposable instant cold packs
22. Calamine lotion
23. Alcohol wipes or ethyl alcohol
24. Flashlight and extra batteries
25. Mouthpiece for administering CPR
26. List of emergency phone numbers
27. Blanket

Always read the entire first-aid manual so that you'll have knowledge on how to use the contents of your kits. Keep the first-aid kits in those places which are out of children's reach but are easily accessible for adults. Regularly check the kits and replace missing items or medicines that might have expired.