What Should Be in a First Aid Kit? Your Checklist

Stephan Heyneke

When it comes to ensuring safety and preparedness, having a well-stocked first aid kit is essential. Whether you’re at home, at work, or on the go, being equipped to handle minor injuries and emergencies can make all the difference. 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to include in your first aid kit, providing a detailed checklist that caters to families, SHE Reps, workplace employees, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

By following this list and tailoring it to your specific needs, you’ll be equipped to handle minor injuries and emergencies with confidence.

Why You Need a First Aid Kit

Accidents happen unexpectedly, and having a first aid kit on hand allows you to respond promptly and effectively. In the workplace, it’s a critical component of occupational health and safety, enabling First Aid responders at work to address incidents swiftly. For families, a first aid kit ensures you can tend to minor injuries from everyday activities. Campers and adventurers need a first aid kit to tackle potential injuries in remote locations where medical help might not be immediately accessible.

First Aid Kit Essentials

When buying, or putting together, your own First Aid kit, it’s crucial to understand the essentials that every kit should contain. These items form the foundation of a well-prepared first aid kit, ensuring you’re ready to handle a variety of situations.

Basic Supplies

1. Adhesive bandages (assorted Sizes) – for minor cuts and abrasions.
2. Sterile gauze pads – to cover and protect larger wounds.
3. Adhesive tape – to secure bandages and dressings.
4. Antiseptic wipes – for cleaning wounds and preventing infection.
5. Antibiotic ointment – to apply on wounds to prevent infection.
6. Hydrogen peroxide – for wound cleaning.
7. Tweezers – for removing splinters and debris.
8. Scissors – for cutting tape, gauze, and clothing if necessary.
9. Disposable gloves – to protect yourself and the injured person from infection.
10. Instant cold packs – to reduce swelling and pain.

Medications 

Medications are not allowed to be provided to staff and employees by First Aiders. They may only be given by a registered professional with a dispensing licence, as a medical professional is aware of their  scope of practice. At home or for personal use the following could be recommended.

1. Pain relievers (aspirin, ibuprofen, or acetaminophen) – for pain and fever relief.
2. Antihistamines – for allergic reactions.
3. Hydrocortisone cream – for itching and skin irritations.
4. Anti-diarrhea medication – in case of digestive issues.
5. Personal medications – any prescription medications that you or your family members may need.

Emergency Items

1. CPR mask – for performing CPR safely.
2. Thermometer – to check for fever.
3. First aid manual – a guide to help you administer first aid correctly.
4. Emergency contact information – including phone numbers for local emergency services and personal contacts.

Additional Considerations

• Personal medications: include any personal medications you or someone in your family might need, such as inhalers for asthma.
• Special needs: if someone has specific medical conditions, tailor the kit to include any necessary supplies, such as diabetic testing kits or epi-pens (if prescribed by a doctor for allergic reactions).
• Activity-specific items: if you participate in specific activities like camping or cycling, consider adding items like tick removers, blister pads, or sports tape.

Specialised Items for Different Needs

Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need to add specialised items to your first aid kit.

For Families

1. Children’s pain relievers – appropriate for different age groups.
2. Child-sized bandages – smaller sizes for children’s cuts and scrapes.
3. Baby wipes – useful for quick cleanups.
4. Digital thermometer – easier and safer for taking children’s temperatures.

For the Workplace

This can be drastically different depending on the industry and environment.

1. Eye wash solution – to rinse out chemicals or debris.
2. Burn creams and dressings – for treating burns from workplace accidents.
3. Finger splints – for minor fractures and sprains.
4. Elastic bandages – for sprains and strains.
5. Safety pins – for securing bandages and slings.

For Campers and Outdoor Enthusiasts

1. Insect repellent – to prevent insect bites.
2. Snake bite kit – if you’re in areas with venomous snakes.
3. Emergency blanket – to prevent hypothermia.
4. Water purification tablets – in case of emergencies requiring safe drinking water.
5. Multi-tool – for various needs in a survival situation.

Maintaining Your First Aid Kit

• Regularly check the expiry dates of medications and replace them as needed.
• Restock used supplies promptly to ensure your kit remains complete.
• Review and update the contents of your kit periodically, especially if your needs or activities change.
• Store your kit in a cool, dry place 

Remember, a first aid kit is only helpful if everyone can access it and knows where it is stored. 

A first aid kit is a vital tool for ensuring safety and preparedness in various settings. By following this comprehensive checklist, you can create a first aid kit tailored to your needs, whether you’re at home, at work, or in the great outdoors. Remember, being prepared can make all the difference in an emergency, providing peace of mind and the ability to act swiftly and effectively.

To learn more about your First Aid kit and how to effectively use it in an emergency situation, book a first aid course.