A first aid kit is a portable package filled with medical supplies that can be used to give first aid in case of emergencies. Common components include a carrying case, gloves, bandages, gauze, antibiotic cream and scissors.

Get a durable, water-proof container and plastic bags to compartmentalize.

Pack plenty of bandages, adhesive bandages, triangle cloth bandages that can be used as a sling or a tourniquet, antibiotic cream, sterile gauze pads, latex gloves and aspirin. Keep a first aid book in here as well. Be sure to know the content of the book and review it often to be prepared in case of an emergency.

Highly recommended tools for a first aid kit include scissors, tweezers, and a thermometer. If there is available space a few more handy items to include are a lighter, a swiss army knife, a small flashlight, some seal-able plastic bags, and a dental kit. If possible keep a non-expiring phone card and a list of emergency contacts.

If there is still space in your kit, a few over the counter medications may help. Useful medications include: antacids, antidiarrheal, antiseptic soap, sunscreen, ibuprofen, anesthetic spray and some Benadryl.

Keep it in the kitchen, as this is where the majority of family activities take place. Keep an extra in the car and where ever else the family spends time. Be sure and know how to handle any first aid situations.

• AAA
• Adventure Medical Kits
• LifeLine First Aid