Certified first responders are people who provide pre-hospital care in medical emergencies. They have to complete a course and obtain certification to become qualified to administer medical treatment in the field. A first responder is more skilled than someone who has received training in basic first aid, but are not qualified to offer advanced medical care such as those provided by nurses, emergency medical technicians, paramedics and emergency physicians. However, they can render invaluable service when they encounter certain types of emergencies such as heart attacks, emergency childbirth and spinal immobilization. As such, the first responder kits include all of the first aid supplies that are necessary for a range of emergency situations.

Since first responders are expected to respond immediately to any kind of emergency, they are often exposed to dangerous situations where they can easily become victims themselves. To prevent personal injuries, they must have adequate safety equipment in their first responder kits.

Here are some of the essential pieces of equipment that should be in their kit to providing the best emergency services.

• Disposable gloves: The first responder has a high probability of getting an infection when touching infected people. Disposable gloves can be highly effective in preventing infection. Every first responder must have disposable gloves in their possession so that they and the person they are giving first aid to can remain free of infection.

• Surgical mask: When providing first aid to an infected person, there is a real possibility of getting airborne infections. The best way to remain safe from dust and airborne bacteria microorganisms is to wear surgical masks. These masks prevent you from inhaling floating germs and particles. Surgical masks are used by doctors and nurses to defend themselves against airborne diseases.

• Goggles: Goggles or safety glasses should be an essential component of first responder kits as they protect the responder from chemicals or body fluids splashing into the eyes and also prevent eye injuries. These qualities make them an essential component of a first responder kit.

• Waterless hand cleaner: One of the easiest ways to get infected when treating an ill person is through hand contact. Unfortunately, water and soap are often not available on the site of injury, such as an air crash site in a remote area. Waterless hand cleaner can be very useful at such times as it can effectively remove bacteria and other germs and keep you safe.

Different emergency situations require different safety kits, but the above can be used in almost every situation. While first responders often put the safety of the injured person above their own, they must also protect themselves.  Having the right safety equipment in their first responder kits does not only keep you safe from diseases and save your own life, but also the life of the injured person.

Find these safety supplies and more in our online first aid supply shop.