Being well organized also means being prepared. We all need a first aid kit in our homes and in our cars in case of an emergency. If you enjoy hiking, biking, or camping, keep one with you in your backpack. You can put your kits together using the list below or purchase them through the American Red Cross or most drug stores.

The American Red Cross suggests that you include any personal items such as medications and emergency phone numbers or other items your health-care provider may suggest. When you use anything from one of your kits, don’t forget to replenish it. Also check expiration dates periodically. The Red Cross recommends that all first aid kits for a family of four include the following:

• 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
• 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
• 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
• 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
• 5 antiseptic wipe packets
• 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
• 1 blanket (space blanket)
• 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
• 1 instant cold compress
• 2 pair of non-latex gloves (size: large)
• 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets
• Scissors
• 1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)
• 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
• Oral thermometer (non-mercury/non-glass)
• Flashlight
• 2 triangular bandages
• Tweezers
• First aid instruction booklet

Please visit the American Red Cross website for further information.

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