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Being properly prepared with first aid supplies will make it easier and less stressful to deal with an emergency. Always keep your first aid kit in the same place. That way it will be easy to find, even during an emergency. Anyone who is old enough to stay home alone is old enough to know where the kit is, and how to use it.
A typical kit should include medicines, bandages, and certain tools. Medications should include: - paracetamol, such as Panadol
- an antiseptic such as Dettol or Betadine
- an antihistamine that can be taken by mouth, such as Telfast or Polaramine
- Calamine or Caladryl lotion
- a medicine to treat diarrhoea, such as Lomotil, or Imodium
- a burn cream
- a small bottle of Syrup of Ipecac that causes vomiting (this should never be used except when directed to do so by your Poisons Information Centre)
Other first aid kit supplies should include: - sterile 4 by 4 inch gauze pads and roller gauze
- various sizes of adhesive bandages such as Band-Aids
- an elastic compression bandage
- cotton swabs
- non-allergenic adhesive tape
- scissors, tweezers, and several needles
- matches
- a thermometer
- safety pins and
- a spoon
There are many good first aid books available at your local bookstore. Be sure to include one in your kit. Be sure emergency phone numbers are posted by each telephone. Should a serious event occur, make sure your family members know how to respond safely and quickly. Holding first aid drills will help your family prepare for emergencies. For more information and training in giving first aid, call your local St John's Ambulance. Article #4911 Copyright (c) 2002 McKesson. All Rights Reserved. |
