First Aid Checklist

Keep basic tools handy for those little emergencies.

Mom’s kisses are great, but some boo-boos need a little more care to keep infections away. A well-stocked first-aid kit may be all you need for life’s little emergencies. Keep one at home, but out of the reach of children. Store a second one in the car. And if you hike, camp, or bike, take a kit with you.

First-aid kit items:

The first-aid kit should have a first-aid guide that includes step-by-step instructions for each item.

•  Acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen

•  Adhesive bandages of different sizes. Sterile gauze pads, a roll of gauze, and tape.

•  Antibiotic ointment or spray. Antiseptic ointment or wipes.

•  Antihistamine tablets or syrup

•  Calibrated medicine spoon and dropper

•  Cold pack

•  Cotton-tipped swabs

•  Elastic wrap and closures

•  Flashlight and extra batteries

•  Hydrocortisone ointment

•  Scissors

•  Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)

•  Tweezers

Extra items for a car or boat:

•  Clean, folded sheet and blanket

•  Large flashlight. Extra batteries. Rope. Flares.

•  Protective clothing and footwear

•  Plastic bottle of water, tightly capped

Learn how to handle common injuries & wounds:

•  Rinse cuts and scrapes with cool water.

•  To stop bleeding, apply firm but gentle pressure, using gauze. If blood soaks through it, add more gauze, keeping the first layer in place. Keep applying pressure until the bleeding stops.

•  Do the Heimlich maneuver for people who are choking.

•  Know CPR basics to help someone who collapsed due to cardiac arrest.

Action Step

Take a basic first-aid course for hands-on practice in giving first aid and CPR. Check with your local Red Cross, police and/or fire department to find locations and dates.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

 

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