Emergencies can happen when you least expect them. To help prepare for the unexpected, having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand can give you a critical advantage to first response.
Brian Seymour, MD, Emergency Department Medical Director of Ochsner Medical Center - North Shore, says, “Whether on the soccer field or fishing on your boat, you never know when you will need a first aid kit. They are easy to stash in a backpack or glove box. Just remember to check yours once a year to ensure the supplies are up to date.”
Here’s a simple way to prepare for most minor emergencies: Stash first aid kits, customized to meet your family’s needs, in your home, car and carry-on bag when traveling. Be sure to keep them current—periodically check batteries and toss expired products—and keep out of children’s reach.
Here’s an overview of the basics!
For the Family:
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Additional Items for babies:
- Acetaminophen
- Baby nail clippers
- Cotton balls and/or swabs
- Petroleum jelly
- Medicine syringe
- Bulb suction and saline drops
- Rectal thermometer
- Diaper rash ointment
- Moist towelettes
- Diapers
- Bottles
- Baby formula and/or food
