What should I have in my first aid kit?

20th September, 2019 • 2 min read

Everyone should have a first aid box at home so they can deal with minor injuries.

Some people will also keep an emergency first aid kit in their car, and take a seperate

travel first aid kit
when going on holiday.

Below, we’ve listed the first aid kit supplies you should have at home.

Sterile dressings and plasters

Plasters

Plasters can be used for small cuts. Ideally you should have a fabric plaster strip, so no matter the size or shape of the wound, you’ll be able to cut the plaster to size.

Sterile pads

If a wound needs more padding, you can use sterile pads held in place with tape.

Sterile wound dressing

A sterile wound dressing is a sterile pad attached to a bandage. These are for larger wounds to apply pressure to help stop the bleeding. They are quick and easy to put on in an emergency.

Bandages

Roller bandages

Roller bandages have a few different uses. They can: help to support joint injuries, keep dressings in place, put pressure on wounds, and help to reduce swelling.

Triangular bandages

These types of bandages can be used as a bandage or sling, or as a dressing for larger cuts or burns (as long as it’s sterile).

Protective items

Disposable gloves

Disposable gloves can help prevent the risk of infection when you are helping someone with an injury. Use them when you dress wounds or are dealing with body fluids or waste.

Face shields or pocket masks

Face shields are used when you give rescue breaths during CPR. They can help prevent the spread of infection.

Other useful items

Cleansing wipes, alcohol-free wipes

Cleansing wipes are used to clean the skin around the cut or graze.

Gauze pads as dressings

These can be used to clean around the wound or as a padded dressing.

Sticky tape

Sticky tape can be used to secure sterile pads or other types of bandages to your skin.

Pins and clips

Pins and clips are needed to keep bandages in place.

Scissors

Scissors can be used to cut bandages or dressings to the right size. They may also be needed to cut someone’s clothes so you can clean and dress their wounds.

Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.