How to Make a First Aid Kit

Having a first aid kit is an important part of emergency preparedness. You should have a first aid kit for both your home food storage and (as a condensed version) 72 hour kits.  This checklist gives basic recommendations for putting together a standard first aid kit.

Standard First Aid Kit Supplies*

• Container (metal, wood, or plastic) with a fitted cover to store first aid kit
• First Aid Booklet (including CPR)
• Prescribed Medications
• Any critical medical family histories
• Adhesive
• Ammonia
• Bicarbonate of soda
• Calamine lotion (sunburn/insect bites)
• Diarrhea remedy
• Elastic bandages
• Gauze bandages
• Hot-water bottle
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Ipecac syrup (induces vomiting)
• Knife
• Matches
• Measuring cup
• Medicine dropper
• Needles
• Paper bags
• Razor blades
• Rubbing alcohol
• Safety pins
• Scissors
• Soap
• Thermometer
• Triangular bandages
• Tweezers
• Prescriptions
• Consecrated oil

Additional First Aid Kit Supplies

• Immunization records
• Medications for children (if applicable)
• Fever reducing medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen
• Allergy medication
• Antibacterial wipes
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic wipes
• Band-aids
• Burn ointment/spray
• Cotton balls
• Cough syrup/cough drops
• Disposable blanket
• Eye drops/eye wash
• Feminine Hygiene
• Gloves
• Hand sanitizer
• Hot and cold instant packs
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Lip ointment (chap stick)
• Medical tape (waterproof & regular)
• Nail clippers
• Needle and thread
• Snake bite kit
• Sterile strips
• Sunscreen/lotion
• Tourniquet kit
• Vaseline
• Water purification tablets

Notes:

1. Update your first aid kit every six months (put a note in your calendar/planner) to replenish and check all supplies. Expired or contaminated items should be replaced.
2. Check with your family doctor for any specific medicines and first aid supplies your family might require for an emergency.
3. Some items may leak or break open. Using tubes, plastic bottles, or Ziploc bags can help prevent contamination.
4. All first aid supplies should be labeled and organized for quick and easy use.
5. Supplies may be divided and organized into compartments or sections for easier access when using your first aid kit.
6. You may include any other first aid items you feel would be useful or necessary.
7. A condensed version of this first aid kit should also be included in your 72 hour kit.