60 FIRST AID

First-aid equipment

Having the correct supplies can make a big difference in an emergency, so you should always keep a selection of essential first-aid materials at home and in your car. Store the items in a first-aid box or in a similar type of airtight container in a dry place. The box should be easily accessible in an emergency but kept away from other medicines and out of reach of children. Ideally, the box should be small and light enough for you to carry easily. Check and replenish the first-aid kit regularly so that the contents are kept up to date.

HOME FIRST-AID KIT

ADHESIVE BANDAGES for covering small cuts and scrapes	TRIANGULAR BANDAGES for use as a sling to support and immobilize an injured limb		CREPE ROLLER BANDAGES for applying pressure to a wound or to support a strain or sprain	GAUZE ROLLER BANDAGES for holding dressings in place on any part of the body
		Applicator
		Bandage	TWEEZERS for removing splinters

GAUZE DRESSINGS light dressings for use directly on wounds

WOUND DRESSING sterile dressings that combine bandage and dressing in one

TUBULAR BANDAGE used with a special applicator to secure dressings on fingers or toes

SCISSORS for cutting dressings and bandages

ANTISEPTIC WIPES for cleaning wounds

ANTISEPTIC CREAM used on cuts and scrapes to help prevent infection

MICROPOROUS TAPE breathable, low-tack tape for holding dressings in place

SAFETY PINS for securing bandages and slings

CALAMINE LOTION for treating sore and sunburned skin

FACE SHIELD for protection from crossinfection when giving rescue breaths

DISPOSABLE GLOVES for protection from crossinfection when touching body fluids

COLD PACK for reducing swelling in sprains and strains

Home Emergency Book Vol 1 | Page 57

First-aid equipment