The first aid kit should be accessible to all member of your family that may need to use it in time of need most importantly.

To make your first aid kit the first thing you need to do is find a type of box to hold your supplies and keep them organized. Many people have found that using a fisherman's tackle box fits the bill due to its many various sized compartments that are perfect for sorting and separating medical supplies.

First Aid Kit Essentials:

Antibiotic Ointment (such as Neosporin)
Antiseptic wipes (alcohol pads)
Burn Ointment (typically with pain relief and antibiotic properties)
Burn Gel (helps draw the heat out)
Calamine Lotion
Insect Bite Kit
Rubbing Alcohol
Safety Pins
Scissors (small, personal)
Sterile Pads
Sponges
Thermometer
Betadine Solution (topical antiseptic)
Cotton Balls
Cotton Applicators (such as Q-Tips)
Ear Drops
Ephinephrine pen in case of severe allergic reaction
Sterile eye wash and eye pads
Flashlight (with spare batteries)
Blanket(s)
Gauze wrap
20 adhesive bandages (various sizes)
Adhesive tape, 2" width
Hand Sanitizer
Hydro-cortisone Creme (rashes and itching)
Cold Packs
Instant Heat Packs
Tweezers
Tongue Depressors
Non-powdered latex gloves

Medicines you should include:

Aspirin or non-aspirin pain reliever
Acid Reducers (solids such as Tums are best)
Anti-Diarrhea Medicine
Antihistamine
Activated Charcoal and Ipecac Syrup to treat ingested poison (you should only use when told to by a Poison Control Center, or other medical professional)
Laxatives

Other Items to Include:

A card with all of the important local phone numbers should be clearly posted with the kit and either laminated or inside a plastic cover to prevent damage so it will be easily readable in time of need. The card should contain the following numbers:

Local Emergency number (911 in many areas)
Local Fire Department
Local Police Department
Poison Control Center
Nearby Neighbors (in case a young child needs to contact someone nearby due to distance from professional help)
Names of family members and cellular phone numbers to contact them.
Each family members Social Security Number along with blood type and medical needs of each person.

After putting together your home first aid kit you should maintain the supplies. Checking the supplies regularly will help ensure you have needed items in time of emergency. Take inventory, and restock those that are getting low or are used up. It is very important to check all of the expiration dates on medicines and other supplies, and throw out any that have expired or are close to expiration. You will feel much safer and less panicked in a time of need with medical supplies organized and ready for use.

Learn more about this author, William Conner.
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