Wednesday, June 10, 2015

How To Prepare A First Aid Survival Kit

By April Briggs


An emergency can occur at any time. Whether it is a house fire, a natural disaster, or some other catastrophe, having a properly equipped first aid survival kit could mean the difference between life and death. Having the supplies necessary to treat a wound or sudden illness is crucial when seconds count.

Every home should have a minimum of one well-equipped first aid kit, but having one on each level of the house is a better idea. Supplies should be readily available at any time and having to search through the home for them will waste precious seconds. Make sure every resident of the home, including children who are old enough to understand, knows where the supplies are and how to use them properly.

Make sure your kit has a good first aid manual. It can be easy to forget even the most basic steps when emotions are running high during an emergency. Being able to refer to a manual can be a lifesaver when time is running out and an immediate response is necessary.

Adhesive bandages in various shapes and sizes are essential for covering minor abrasions and cuts. Each bandage should be sealed individually in paper or plastic. If the package is torn open, replace it to ensure the bandages stay clean.

In case there is a need to dress large wounds, you need adhesive tape, gauze and sterile pads. Pack several sterile pads of different sizes and at least two rolls of gauze. Include scissors sharp enough to cut through clothing, tape, and gauze.

An instant cold compress will come in handy for treating strains and sprains, which are common injuries in accidents of all kinds. A triangular bandage can serve as an arm sling. An ace bandage wrapped around an injured joint or tendon can control swelling.

It is important to reduce the risk of spreading infection when treating open wounds. You will need to put on some disposable nonlatex gloves before attempting to treat someone who is injured. Include some antibiotic ointment packets and antiseptic wipe packets with your supplies. You can use these to clean out any wounds before covering them.

You should include assorted other items that can be useful in an emergency. These include a flashlight with extra batteries, tweezers, and an oral thermometer. Test the flashlight periodically and replace the batteries as necessary. An emergency blanket, or space blanket, can prevent loss of body heat and is extremely lightweight and compact.

You can purchase a first aid kit online or in any local drug store or variety retail outlet. Depending on your family's individual needs, you may have to add a few additional items to customize your kit. These may include several epinephrine auto injectors if someone in your family has severe allergies. Add a supply of any necessary prescription medications because it may be impractical to fill a prescription during an emergency. Always inspect the kit at least once every six months to replace old batteries, check the expiration dates on medicine, and verify the packages surrounding the sterile items are still intact with no rips or tears that can allow dirt to enter.




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