Accidents and injuries can happen without warning and often in the most unexpected places and circumstances. Without proper and timely medical attention, even a minor injury can have serious consequences. Whether at home, in the workplace or outdoors, a well-stocked first aid kit is essential for handling any emergency.

You can buy a readymade first aid kit or make your own. It's easy to assemble your own first aid kid. First, get a plastic container that is roomy, lightweight, sturdy, easy-to-open and easy-to-carry. Stick a first aid sticker on its outer surface to identify its contents. Fill it with first aid supplies like adhesive tapes and bandages, elastic bandages, anti-septic wipes, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, antibiotic ointment, painkillers and other medicines.

Once your first aid kit is ready, you can take it with you anywhere. However, it is not always practical to carry the box around. Therefore, it may be more practical to have one in each place you deem to be important. Here are 7 places where you should keep a first aid kit: Continue reading →

­Whether you are throwing a football, shooting a puck, swimming some laps or climbing a mountain, all athletes should be prepared for injuries to occur. As an athlete you should always be proactive and have a first aid kit on site, so that you can tend to your wound, recover quickly and minimize the impact of your injury.

It is important to consider which sport you will be participating in as certain injuries are more common in specific sports. For example, bruises, abrasions and sprained ankles are more commonly seen in baseball, so you should tailor your kit to include items that pertain to your favourite sport.  However, here is a list for some basic essentials that should be included in any athlete’s first aid kit. Continue reading →

Keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in your home is a wise idea at the best of times.  It’s even more important after an event like the recent Hurricane Sandy, where power may be lost and medical attention scarce.  Here are 12 first aid supplies you should always have on hand so you’ll be prepared for whatever comes your way.  Continue reading →