Threats are everywhere; cooking in the kitchen, taking a shower, going down the stairs, and sometimes, even while walking around the house. Anything could cause a minor injury and you must be prepared to contain it then and there itself. Small injuries could take a major shape if not tended sooner. The only way to be prepared is by having a well-stocked first aid kit.
But first aid or fast aid?
A lot of people confuse first aid with fast aid and think both terms refer to the same concept. That is wrong! First aid refers to the care or assistance offered to a person for sudden injury or illness. Fast aid is simply an informal way of referring first aid.
So what’s a first aid kit.
The answer is quite obvious, isn’t it? It’s a collection of items sufficient enough to provide minimal medical treatment. The contents of a first aid kit varies extensively, basing on the knowledge, experience, and the requirement of the person putting it together.
Importance of having an at-home first aid kit
An at-home, first aid kit can be a lifesaver in many circumstances. With few instructions and very basic care training, people could be trained in helping someone or even themselves during day-to-day emergencies. But, before that, you must be well-versed in the knowledge of items that must be a part of your first-aid kit. Having the right medicines or medical equipment is as crucial as any.
Here is a RED CROSS recommended first aid checklist you must put together for your first aid kit:
Sl. No |
Item Name |
Specifications |
Quantity |
Equipment: Tools & Supplies |
|||
1 |
Cloth tape |
Adhesive |
1 |
2 |
Bandages |
Adhesive |
25 |
3 |
Compress dressing |
5 X 9 inches; absorbent |
2 |
4 |
Wipes |
Antiseptic |
5 |
5 |
Hand gloves |
Non-latex; large |
2 |
6 |
Gauze pads |
3 X 3 inches; sterile |
5 |
7 |
Gauze pads |
4 X 4 inches; sterile |
5 |
8 |
Tweezers |
1 |
|
9 |
Scissors |
1 |
|
10 |
Thermometer |
Digital | 1 |
11 |
Roller bandage |
3 inches wide |
1 |
12 |
Roller bandage |
4 inches wide |
1 |
13 |
Instant cold compress |
1 |
|
14 | Breathing barrier | With one-way valve |
1 |
15 |
Space blanket |
1 |
|
16 |
Triangular bandages |
2 |
|
Medications |
|||
17 |
Antibiotic ointment |
1 gm (approximately) |
5 packets |
18 |
Disprin |
81 mg |
2 packets |
19 |
Hydrocortisone ointment |
1 gm (approximately) |
2 packets |
Others |
|||
20 |
First aid instruction book |
1 |