What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness First Aid Kit

What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness First Aid Kit

In some cases, being prepared may very well become vital for your survival. You never know what tomorrow will bring, and being prepared is not only essential for your overall safety, health, and well-being, but it’s also an excellent way to calm your nerves. When you’re aware and prepared, no matter what is thrown your way, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re ready. Of all the things that you can do to protect and prepare yourself and your family, putting together an emergency preparedness first aid kit tops the list of importance. An emergency preparedness first aid kit, whether for the workplace or the home, contains all of the essentials (and more), which can come in handy if disaster strikes.

What to Put in Your Emergency Preparedness First Aid Kit

Basic First Aid Supplies

When you’re assembling an emergency preparedness kit, start by considering your family’s basic needs. This includes items that may be needed for specific medical conditions. The following are some of the basic items you’ll want to include in your emergency preparedness first aid kit:

  • A detailed first-aid manual and/or informational cards
  • Adhesive wound-closure strips, such as butterfly bandages
  • Medical adhesive tape
  • Gauze pads in an assortment of sizes
  • Adhesive bandages in an assortment of sizes
  • Antibacterial creams
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Non-stick sterile pads
  • Tweezers
  • Broad spectrum oral antibiotics
  • Antiseptics and disinfectants (peroxide, isopropyl alcohol, etc.)
  • Any medications that you or anyone in your family takes regularly
  • EpiPens or Epineprhine
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, such as pain, allergy, heartburn, and nausea medications
  • Feminine hygiene products, such as tampons and pads

Medications, Remedies, and Additional First Aid Supplies

  • Aloe Vera gel
  • Burn treatment
  • Blister treatment
  • Anti-itch cream/spray
  • Eye drops
  • Pressure bandages
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Antihistamines

Additional Wound Care Supplies

  • Rolled bandages
  • Rolled gauze
  • Shears
  • Surgical gloves
  • Topical anesthetic
  • Cotton swabs
  • Cotton balls
  • Irrigation syringe
  • Saline wound flush

Additional First Aid Items

In addition to the above, you should also consider adding the following items to your emergency preparedness first aid kit.

  • Splits (air splints, as well as SAM)
  • Dust mask
  • Sterile needles
  • Surgical blades
  • Quick clot gauze
  • Disposable thermometers
  • Sunblock
  • Bug repellent spray
  • Vaseline
  • Emergency dental kit
  • Personal grooming and cleaning tools, such as nail clippers and soap

How to Assemble Your Emergency Preparedness First Aid Kit

In addition to the above essential and suggested items, you should also include important documents and any other items that you believe you and your family would need in the event of a medical emergency. Once you have all of your supplies, use the following tips to assemble your emergency preparedness kit:

  • Store medical supplies in air-tight, waterproof containers
  • Keep medicines in cool, dry, dark areas
  • Clearly label all items, including the names of each item, the dates they were packed, and expiration dates
  • Keep tabs on supplies and replace items when they expire
  • Teach family members how to use the equipment and supplies
  • Organize items so that the things you’ll need the most are the easiest to access

Additional Information: Build A Kit – Ready.gov

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