First aid kits are essential whether you’re at home, in the workplace or out and about. You never know when you might find yourself in a situation that requires first aid.
Your first aid kit should always be kept safely in an easily accessible location for an emergency, but be mindful of young children and make sure it is kept safely out of their reach.
It’s also important to ensure your first aid kit is properly stocked with all the essentials. It can be easy to use up the contents over time, so put a regular date in your calendar to check your first aid kit to ensure it is always ready for use.
The contents of your first aid kit may differ depending on the location. For example, if there are children around, you may need smaller plasters and child-friendly medication. First aid kits should be stored in a cupboard, away from the reach of young children but still easily accessible in the event of an emergency.
All British-Standards compliant first aid kits are green with a large white cross for clear visibility. You may also see a red first aid kit, but these are primarily burn kits.
What Should Be In A First Aid Kit
Bandages & Plasters
- Plasters in an array of shapes and sizes
- Sterile gauze dressings
- Triangular bandages
- Eye dressings
Bandages and plasters protect the wounded area, create pressure and prevent infections and dirt from entering the area. There are several different bandages and plasters in a variety of shapes and sizes. It is important to have an assortment of options in your kit, depending on the size and location of the injury.