How to fix up a first aid kit

Compile a first aid kit

You can, of course, also make your own. The American Red Cross says that a first aid kit for a family of four should include:

• Two pairs of non-latex gloves

• Two 5 x 9 inch absorbent compress dressings

• Adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)

• Bandages and gauze

  • One 3-inch wide roller bandage

  • One 4-inch wide roller bandage

  • Five 3 x 3 inch sterile gauze pads

  • Five 4 x 4 inch sterile gauze pads

  • 25 Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes

  • Two triangular bandages

• Scissors

• Tweezers

• Antibiotic ointment

• Five antiseptic wipe packets

• Hydrocortisone ointment

• Oral thermometer (be sure it is not glass and does not contain mercury)

• Breathing masks with one-way valve

• Instant cold pack

• First aid instruction book

• Blanket/space blanket

• Personal items, such as

  • Medication (including prescriptions and other health-related items)

  • Emergency phone numbers

Ready.gov also suggests making sure you have over-the-counter medications on hand, such as:

• Pain relievers

• Anti-diarrheal

• Antacid

• Laxative

If you’re making your own kit, store items in airtight bags and a sturdy container that’s easy to carry, says Ready.gov. The Red Cross also recommends keeping a first aid kit in your car and another in your home.