Don't wait for hurricanes, earthquakes or other emergencies before assembling a basic first aid kit because you will need one even for minor injuries, especially if children are involved. What about keeping assorted bits and pieces of first aid supplies in a bathroom cabinet? This is not a good idea because of the humidity factor and the fact that those supplies, unlike a kit, can't travel. While commercial kits are the easy way out, they also cost more than a homemade kit and might not meet individual needs.
Containers and bags. In order to preserve the sterility of bandages and to protect them from humidity, you will need plastic bags -- the kind that seal -- in assorted sizes. To store liquids like calamine lotion and ipecac, obtain small plastic bottles to save space.
Basic first aid needs. For small abrasions, the first aid kit should include adhesive bandages in assorted sizes. Gauze pads and dressing bandages, both in four-inch sizes, medical tape and two-inch gauze dressing for covering injuries are essential. For wrapping sprains, include an elastic bandage. Add cotton balls, cotton swabs and alcohol pads for cleaning purposes.
Liquids. In addition to calamine lotion to relieve itching and ipecac syrup for potential poison control, hydrogen peroxide and sterile water for cleansing wounds are good items to include. If space is an issue, keep extra alcohol pads in the first aid kit instead. Also incorporate a chemical ice pack and a chemical hot pack, if you can.
Implements. In order to use the bandages, you'll need scissors. Tweezers are useful for removing splinters and insects. You should also include sterile gloves. Since they don't take up that much space, keep an extra pair in the first aid kit.
The box. To hold all items, a tackle box or a tool box will work because each has tiers to keep items organized. A makeup box might do the trick, but it needs to be made from a durable material. It's a good idea to actually select the container after gathering all the supplies so that you won't be stuck with one that's too small.
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