- There are six basic types of first aid kits: baby, basic, disaster, pet, workplace and automotive. Each of these has a specific purpose. The baby first aid kit should contain items commonly associated with baby accidents. The basic first aid kit should contain items for everyday accidents. A disaster kit should contain items for survival for at least a week and possibly longer depending on the disaster. A pet first aid kit has animal-friendly supplies. A workplace kit offers basic supplies for accidents common in the industry associated with the business. An automotive kit has supplies suitable for survival in the climate in your area, should you become stranded or lost in your vehicle.
- The American Red Cross suggests that all homes, cars and businesses be stocked with a first aid kit containing a basic first aid guide, adhesive bandages, gauze, hand sanitizer, scissors, gloves, antibacterial or antibiotic ointment, tweezers, CPR shield, pain relievers, anti-diarrhea medicine, antacids, syrup of ipecac and activated charcoal. Additional items can be added. Some suggestions are an eye wash kit, nail clippers, flashlight, eye drops, stopwatch, feminine products, petroleum jelly, tongue depressors, antihistamine medications, portable defibrillator, splints and baby wipes or moist towelettes.
- If anyone in the home is on daily medications, a list of these medications should be placed in the first aid box, along with a list of drugs and medications that will interact with these. During a disaster or emergency, it is easy to forget what medications each family member is taking and what should be taken with the medications. It is also a good idea to store a copy of insurance plan cards or other pertinent medical information in the first aid kit.
- Many first aid kits contain medication. It is vitally important to check the expiration date on all medications in the kit. Medicine that is expired is generally less effective and, in some cases, can poison the person who takes it. A good time to check the expiration date of medications is the first of each month or the day you pay your mortgage, rent or insurance. Additionally, first aid kits should be kept out of the reach of children. If young children can access the first aid kit, a locking kit may be advisable.
- The Occupational Safety & Health Administration requires that first aid supplies be available in every business. However, they don't have any specific requirements concerning the contents of the kit. This is because each business has individual needs. At a minimum, the kits must contain basic supplies to handle minor eye injuries, burns, cuts and other industry specific wounds.
