What to put in a home first aid kit
A first aid kit earns its keep on ordinary days, the cuts and headaches and fevers, and it matters most in an emergency, when help may be hours away. Build a real one, and make sure everyone knows where it is.
Wound care basics
- Adhesive bandages in several sizes.
- Gauze pads and a roll of gauze, plus medical tape.
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment.
- Tweezers, small scissors, and disposable gloves.
Medications
- A pain and fever reliever.
- An antihistamine for allergic reactions.
- An anti-diarrheal and hydrocortisone cream.
- A few days of any personal prescriptions.
Tools and extras
- A digital thermometer and an instant cold pack.
- An elastic bandage for sprains, and safety pins.
- A CPR face shield and a simple first aid guide.
Add for emergencies
If help could be delayed, add extra prescription medication, a pressure bandage for serious bleeding, a few N95 masks, and more gloves. Keep a full kit at home and a smaller one in the car.
Keep it stocked
Ointments, medications, and even some sterile supplies expire, and a kit you raid for everyday scrapes quietly empties out. Check the dates and refill what you have used, so it is complete when it counts.
Quick checklist
- Bandages, gauze, tape, antiseptic, and ointment.
- Gloves, tweezers, scissors, and a thermometer.
- Pain reliever, antihistamine, and personal prescriptions.
- Cold pack, elastic bandage, and a CPR shield.
- One at home, one in the car, and restock what you use.