First Aid Kit
Everyone should have a well-stocked first aid kit at home, in the car, and at work. You may also want to stock a portable kit (a box or small bag) that can be taken to the site of an emergency.
It's important to check your kit regularly. Restock items that have been used, and replace items that are out-of-date.
The kit's contents will vary depending on the number of people it's designed to protect, as well as its intended use. Here's some advice on what to include in a first-aid kit:
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Instruments
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Bandages
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Bulb syringe
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Adhesive bandage
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Scissors
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Butterfly bandages
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Thermometer (oral)
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Elastic bandages
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Tweezers
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Hypoallergenic tape
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Sling (triangular-shaped cloth)
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Sterile cotton balls
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Sterile eye patches
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Sterile gauze pads (4"x4")
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Stretchable gauze roll
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Waterproof tape
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Medicines
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Other items
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Acetaminophen
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Alcohol (rubbing 70%), alcohol-based hand sanitizer
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Antacid
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Alcohol wipes
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Antibiotic ointment
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Blanket
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Antidiarrheal medicine
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Candles
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Antihistamine
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Chemical ice packs or ice bag
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Aspirin
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Chemical hot packs or hot water bottle
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Antiseptic ointment
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Cotton swabs
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Calamine lotion
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Disposable gloves (non-Latex if you or a loved one has a Latex allergy)
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Decongestant
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Face mask for CPR
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Hydrocortisone cream
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First-aid book
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Ibuprofen
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Flashlight
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Sugar or glucose solution
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Insect repellent
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Insect sting swabs
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Matches
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Measuring spoons
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Paper and pencil
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Paper cups
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Soap
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Safety pins
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Sunscreen
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Tissues
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Tongue blades
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List of emergency phone numbers
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You can also use these everyday items in an emergency:
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Disposable or cloth diapers for compresses, bandages, or padding for use as splints
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Dish towels for use as bandages or slings
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Umbrella, rolled magazine, or layered newspaper for use as a splint
In addition, it's helpful to carry these items in your car:
If your child or other family member has special medical needs, be sure to carry extra medical supplies when you go on an outing or trip. Some of these items might include:
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An allergy kit containing medicines to be used by people with severe allergies. Or a glucagon emergency kit to treat very low blood sugar if a person has diabetes.
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Prescription medicines (make sure they're stored correctly and aren't expired), syringes, and special equipment or supplies.
Be sure any member of your family who has special needs wears a medical alert identification bracelet or necklace at all times. You can find these in most pharmacies or online.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Eric Perez MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Jessica Gotwals RN BSN MPH
Date Last Reviewed:
9/1/2025
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.