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:

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