Vehicle First Aid Kit

When we travel all we hope for is safe and fun trip, but even if we are careful, unexpected events such as emergencies, calamities or accidents can happen anywhere, anytime. That’s why it’s important to be prepared for any situation. Everyone must have a first aid kit in their vehicle or backpack for an outdoor adventure. Although a first aid kit is something that we don’t look forward to using, but it can make a whole lot of difference and can save lives if we are suddenly faced with a life-threatening situation.

In choosing a first aid kit, make sure that it can be easily carried anywhere you go. In a vehicle for example, it should fit in the glove compartment or under the seat for quick access.  The container must be waterproof so that the contents are not damaged by rain or accidental spills. On the other hand, the size should just be large enough to hold and keep its contents organized. If it’s too small, the contents will be harder to organize because they’re crammed together and can result in creams, salves and solutions spilling or leaking. And, if it’s too big, items can roll or move around and become damaged.

Here’s a basic list of what you need in a vehicle First Aid Kit:

• First aid manual
• Antiseptic cleansing wipes
• Adhesive bandages
• Butterfly closure strips
• Cotton balls
• Tissue
• Antibiotic ointment
• Antiseptic solution
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Antihistamines
• Aspirins
• Painkilling tablets
• Laxatives
• Burn relief cream
• Latex-free gloves
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Sterile gauze
• Soap
• Safety pins
• Ethyl alcohol
• Thermometer
• Cold compress/Ice packs
• Whistle
• Flashlights with batteries
• Plastic bags
• Sunscreen
• Emergency phone numbers
• Paper and pen

There is still more that can be added to this list however as a beginner, it's better to take note of this basic list before adding other complex things.
 
Meanwhile, here are some guidelines you must remember after you’ve packed the first aid kit:

• Study the first aid kit manual before the emergency itself. In any dangerous situation, time is essential and you must learn how to act quickly. Everything in the kit is worthless until you know how to use it properly.
• Keep your first aid kit in a secure place within your vehicle so that children will not be able to play with it. The container must also be durable and waterproof.
• Check your first aid kits regularly for any spills or broken items. Replace expired medicines with new ones. 

Keep in mind that the purpose of keeping a first aid kit is vital in providing only temporary solutions to wounds, allergies and sickness to stop infection from increasing rapidly or stop the bleeding. If a person is seriously injured, tools like maps or cell phones would be helpful in seeking medical aid from rescuers or locating hospitals.