First Aid

During an emergency, medical personnel will be stretched super thin, which means you may need to rely on yourself to be able to treat not only your own injuries, but those of the people around you.

First Aid is literally that—the first treatment that is provided. It may be the difference between life and death. Everyone should have a basic first aid kit. Those with more extensive first aid training should also have the tools and supplies that they are familiar with. If you haven’t received training, do so, and work to keep your knowledge current.

Don’t forget that first aid supplies expire! Keep them updated to make sure you have the newest items to treat anything from minor to major wounds. Have a first aid booklet available. If you forget what to do in the heat of the moment, the pages will be a very valuable resource to you.

Sample First Aid Kit

A good first aid kit would feature the following supplies:

• Bandages (Large, Small, Spot bandages)
• Antiseptic Wipes
• Pain Relieving Medicine (Ibuprofen, Aspirin, etc.)
• Trauma Pad
• Cotton Balls
• Scissors
• Alcohol Prep Pads
• Burn Cream Ointments
• Gauze
• Tweezer
• Finger Splint
• Butterfly Closure
• Sterile Gloves
• Moleskin
• Cold Pack
• Insect Relief/Repellent
• Sun block
• Bite/Sting Kit
• Safety Pins
• Porous cloth tape