First Aid Kit Lists

First aid kits are critical necessities during unexpected medical emergencies. Keeping a well-stocked kit in your home, car, during travel and even on the job is generally a good idea in the event of unanticipated injuries. While the supplies in first aids kits are simple and basic medical equipment, they are essential components in providing crucial care when health-related mishaps occur.

All Purpose Kits

• All purpose first aid kits are good for keeping at home and in your car. They generally include bandages of different sizes, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, sterile gauze pads, ointment packs, a thermometer, wound closures, plastic gloves, tweezers, scissors, soap, aspirin, a list of emergency numbers and an instruction booklet.

Camping and Hiking Kits

• First aid kits for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping will contain additional supplies like butterfly closure strips to seal wounds, moleskin to treat blisters, insect repellent, heat and cold packs, hydrocortisone cream to treat allergic skin reactions, calamine lotion for poison ivy and stings, a whistle to summon help and even an LED light and extra compass. In the event that you get lost, it is also a good idea to include your personal information on a laminated card inside your kit.

Boating Kits

• Supplies in first aid kits for boating include much of the same equipment for home and camping kits. However, the contents should be stored in waterproof packaging and inside an impact resistant case. Make sure that any marine first aid kit you buy is United States Coast Guard approved.

Pet Kits

• Much of the contents for pet kits are the same for humans but there are a few extra supplies you can add, including a pet care instruction booklet. Charcoal and ipecac are good supplies to treat pets if they are poisoned to induce vomiting and soothe an upset stomach. It is also a good idea to have the contact information for your pet's veterinarian and animal hospital in the kit.

Care of Kits

• While store-bought first aid kits come ready to use, it is still necessary to replenish products that expire over time. Make sure to check the expiration dates of pills and other types of medication in the kit. Pads and tapes deteriorate over time so it is also important to keep a fresh supply in your kit. Keep everything you need for your kit in one place so supplies will be easy to find when you need them.