Are You Prepared?

The term “first aid” is a familiar one to most of us. In scouts we got the basics and had fun learning to do emergency carries and how to splint a broken leg. We learned about tourniquets; although now we are told by the professionals that these are dangerous, last result measures. As adults, though, how often do we think about what we would do when faced with a first aid situation? Do you have first aid kits in your home and vehicles? Are they well-stocked or are items missing or carrying expiration dates from 1997? Admittedly, first aid kits are not something we think about every day, but it is important to have them stocked and ready at all times. In an emergency, minutes lost searching for bandages or fumbling in the dark for a flashlight can make the difference between life and death. Everyone in your house or workplace should know where the first aid kits are located and how to use the items inside. The only exception is small children. First aid kits should never be accessible to little ones because some ointments are poisonous.

Having first aid kits that are specific to each workplace or activity is essential. For instance, employees or students working with chemicals would need eye washing solutions and burn medications included in their first aid kits. Those who do a lot of outdoor activity would potentially need such things as water purification tablets, a snake bite kit, and ointment for insect bites. All first aid kits should include a light stick or flashlight and fresh batteries, items that are often neglected.

First aid kits can be bought and restocked online from a company founded by professional emergency services personnel. Most of the staff come from an emergency service background and are well suited to advise you and your specific needs and the use of their products. Also available are defibrillators, industrial first aid kits, and manikins for teaching adult and infant CPR. Do not let an emergency situation find you scrambling for the basic supplies. Be prepared! Why not check your first aid kits today?

To the Rescue!

How would you rate your readiness for an emergency? Do your home and cars each have a first aid kit stocked with the basics? Do you know if you have a first aid kit in your workplace and how to use the supplies it contains? A first aid kit usually does not get much thought—it is just the little plastic box buried in the trunk. It takes on enormous significance, however, in the event of an emergency that wants more than just a band aid and a kiss on the elbow. Make sure you keep a well-stocked first aid kit within easy reach at all times. Hopefully, it will never be necessary, but in a real emergency first aid kit supplies can sustain life and limb until professional help arrives.

In addition to having the basic supplies, a first aid kit should be tailored to serve specific emergencies common to each workplace or activity. People working with chemicals should have burn medications and solutions to flush the eyes; hikers should have ointment for bug bites along with a light source, blanket, and water purification tablets: coaches should have ace bandages and something with which to splint limbs. Of course, OSHA has certain requirements for workplace emergency kits, but they are only as effective as the people trained to use them. Know where each first aid kit is located, and know how to use the supplies and equipment. When your boss is having a heart attack is not the moment to be familiarizing yourself with the use of a defibrillator!

How does your first aid kit stack up? Are the supplies replenished as used? Are medications and ointments within their expiration dates? If you answered “no” to the last two questions, it is time for a little trip on the internet. There is a company founded by emergency services personnel which carries everything you need to keep your home or workplace first aid kit well-stocked and ready for any emergency! Former emergency services personnel form the backbone of their staff, and they are ready to tackle any of your questions about what should be in your particular first aid kit and how to use the items correctly. Channel your inner Boy Scout or Girl Scout and challenge yourself to be prepared! Bring your first aid kit “up to speed” today!