Basic First Aid Kit

Prepare

Your kit should include:

• Adhesive bandages (multiple sizes)
• Sterile gauze pads and medical tape
• Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment (e.g., Neosporin)
• Tweezers (for splinters and debris)
• Scissors
• Instant cold packs
• Pain relievers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen)
• Antihistamine (diphenhydramine — for allergic reactions)
• Disposable gloves (at least 2 pairs)
• A CPR face shield
• First aid manual or instruction card

Keep one kit at home, one in your car.

Prevent

• Check your kit every 6 months — replace expired medications and used supplies.
• Consider taking a basic first aid and CPR course — the Red Cross offers them regularly.
• Keep medications stored away from heat and moisture (not in the car glove box).

Respond

Cuts and scrapes: Apply pressure with clean gauze to stop bleeding. Clean with antiseptic wipe. Apply antibiotic ointment. Cover with bandage. Seek medical care if the wound is deep, won't stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth) after 24–48 hours.

Burns (minor): Cool under running water for 10–20 minutes. Do not apply butter or ice. Cover loosely with sterile gauze. Seek care for burns larger than 3 inches, or on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.

Sprains: Rest, Ice (20 min on/off), Compression (wrap with bandage), Elevation. See a doctor if you cannot bear weight.

Allergic reactions: Mild (hives, itching) — antihistamine. Severe (throat tightening, difficulty breathing) — call 911 immediately.

Resources

• American Red Cross First Aid app — free, guides you through emergencies step by step
• Red Cross First Aid/CPR classes: redcross.org/take-a-class
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222
• Emergency: 911