Do You Have A Well-Equipped First Aid Kit At Home?

The global pandemic has many of us afraid to go to the local doctor or hospital, but do you have a well-equipped first-aid kit at home to deal with small emergencies?

09/08/2020

 

 

The global pandemic has far-reaching effects on our lifestyle, one of which is the fact that we are afraid to go to our local GP or emergency ward at the nearest hospital. This means that many minor injuries and accidents have to be dealt with at home and for which you will need to have a well-equipped first aid kit. Not having seen anything that offers much in the way of help when dealing with home accidents, I did some research on what you need to have a decent first aid kit in case of small emergencies.

 

 

Recommended Essentials for a First Aid Kit

Most of us have a box of plasters and perhaps a box of panado tucked away in case they are needed, but this isn't going to help much should a home accident or injury occurs. For this, you are going to need a few more items and it's always a good idea to keep your first aid box stocked up and ready for action.

 

 

 

 

 

 

• First Aid Box

If you don't already have a first aid box you might want to invest in one. It doesn't have to be anything special, just a container where you can lock away first aid essentials. I have my first aid kit in a plastic storage (tool) box that has lots of little compartments within the lid and a removable tray inside. I find this great for storing small items that I need regularly, with bandages and such at the bottom of the main container.

 

• First Aid Dressings

    Plasters in assorted sizes and roll of Elastoplast tape*

    Sterile gauze pads and dressings in assorted sizes, small, medium and large

    Crepe bandages in assorted sizes

    Stretch support bandages

    Triangular bandage (for arm support)

    Clips or tape for securing bandages

    Sterile eye dressing and eye patch

    Safety pins

*Many are allergic to Elastoplast plaster and bandages, so be sure to keep a stock of alternatives if this is the case or you are unsure.

 

• First Aid Instruments

    Scissors

    Tweezers

    Digital thermometer

    Eyewash station

    Disposable gloves

    Face mask

 

• First Aid Medications

    Antiseptic cream or wash

    Antihistamine cream or tablets

    Painkillers, for both adult and juvenile

    Cough and cold medicine, for both adult and juvenile

    Disposable cleansing wipes

    Bottle of distilled water

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using A First Aid Kit

For complete safety for you and your family, invest in a comprehensive first aid manual that offers expert advice on dealing with minor injuries, so that you are fully informed should the occasion arise.

If you are unsure how to treat any emergency, keep the number for your local GP on hand so that you can call and ask for advice.

 

 

Keeping Your First Aid Kit Up To Date

Any medications whether in table form, ointment or salve, should be regularly checked to make sure they're not expired. A 6-monthly check will ensure your first aid kit is always up to date.

Opened packets of sterile dressing or instruments should be replaced immediately.