MyChart
A well-stocked first aid kit can be the difference between life and death in an emergency. Whether at home, in the car, or hiking in the wilderness, having the right items on hand can help you respond quickly to injuries and prevent further harm. But with so many different types of injuries and emergencies, how do you know what to include in your first aid kit? Here’s a comprehensive guide.
The basics
- First aid manual or instruction booklet
- Emergency contacts and phone numbers
- Tweezers for removing splinters or debris
- Small scissors for cutting gauze or clothing away
- Thermometer
- Splints and elastic wraps
- Instant cold packs
Wound care
- Adhesive bandages (Band-aids)
- Adhesive closure strips (butterfly bandages)
- Sterile gauze pads or non-stick pads
- Medical adhesive tape
- Blister treatments (such as moleskin)
- Elastic bandage (e.g., Ace bandage) for wrapping injuries
- Saline solution for cleaning wounds
- Irrigation syringes
- Antiseptic towelettes or alcohol wipes
- Antibiotic ointment
- Tourniquet*
- *for those hiking off trails or in the wilderness where emergency services are not easily accessible
Medications
- Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen)
- Antihistamines for allergic reactions (Benadryl, Zyrtec, Claritin)
- Hydrocortisone cream for itching and rashes
- Calamine lotion for skin irritation
- Burn ointment or Aloe vera gel for minor burns and sunburns
- Antacid tablets
- Anti-diarrheal medication
- Rehydration salts/electrolyte packets
- EpiPen® (epinephrine auto-injector), prescribed for those who experience severe allergies
Personal protection
- Disposable gloves (latex or non-latex)
- CPR face shield or mask
- Safety pins
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Emergency blanket
- Insect repellent
Regularly check your first aid kit and replace expired or used items. Additionally, customize the kit to suit your family’s specific needs and any specific medical conditions you might have. A well-stocked and up-to-date first aid kit can be invaluable in handling minor injuries and medical situations at home.
Ready to build a kit of your own?
Visit Welia Health’s Mora Community Pharmacy or Pine City Community Pharmacy to stock up on essentials or choose from various pre-assembled first aid kits.
