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Home first aid kitPublished by Bupa's health information team, January 2008. This factsheet is for people who would like information about preparing and storing first aid kits for use at home. Over two and a half million people attend accident and emergency departments each year after an injury at home. One million of these visits involve people who have had a fall. Over 200,000 visits to emergency departments are due to accidents while doing DIY. Burns, collisions and poisoning are also common causes of injury. Preventing injuries is better than curing them, so being aware of hazards and taking sensible precautions against them is priority. But, in the event of an accident, you can use a first aid kit at home to deal with minor injuries or to keep a serious injury stable while you seek help.
What should I include in a first aid kit for the home?The following list can be used as a shopping list. The quantity of each item is a guide only - the amount of each item you have will depend on the number of people in your home and the activities that you do at home. Essential itemsIdeally, the items that you should have in your first aid kit include:
Optional extrasExtra items that you may like to have in your first aid kit include:
Containers for first aid kitsKeep your first aid items in a waterproof container large enough for the contents to be arranged so that items can be found quickly when needed. A plastic container with a closely fitting lid is suitable. It's a good idea to label the first aid box so that it can be easily recognised by anybody. The standard labelling for a first aid box is a green background with a white cross. Ready-made kitsThere are many ready made kits available that you can buy from a pharmacy or on the internet. You can also make a kit yourself, selecting the contents that you need. There is no official standard for first aid kits within the home so they can vary. The contents you need may be different for your individual situation and its likely use. Some may not include all the items you may need. Some may contain more than you are likely to need, or even unnecessary items, such as cotton wool or alcohol wipes, which are now considered unsuitable for cleaning wounds but have other uses. You should check the contents carefully. Storing your first aid kitIt makes sense to keep your first aid kit near to where it's most likely to be needed. It should be out of reach of children, but still readily accessible. The place should be dry and cool, so your bathroom is probably not ideal. Using your first aid kitJust as important as keeping a first aid kit is knowing how to use it. All adults, older children and teenagers living in the house should know where the kit is kept, what is in it and how the items are used. It's a good idea to keep a first aid manual with the kit. Replace any used or out-of-date items immediately and check expiry dates from time to time. MedicinesThere are some medicines that can be useful to keep at home in case of minor accidents. You should keep these medicines in a separate locked medicines cabinet, out of reach of children. The medicines include:
You should always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet that comes with the medicines. Ask your pharmacist if you need advice. TrainingIt's a good idea to be trained in first aid. In the UK, courses are provided by organisations like the St John Ambulance and the British Red Cross. See Further information for details. Further information
Related topics
Sources
This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. It has been peer reviewed by Dr James Quekett, Bsc.MB Ch.B MRCGP DRCOG DFFP, partner/principal general practitioner at Rowcroft Medical Centre and Bupa doctors. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional. Publication date: January 2008
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