Also, include the phone number of your local poison control center and syrup of Ipecac. Yes, when first aid kits are used immediately to stop bleeding, reduce swelling, aid breathing, and clean wounds, they can help reduce the seriousness of the injury or medical condition, and even save lives. However, Ms. Pankey says that in addition to having a first aid kit, it s important to know how to use one properly. She recommends first aid courses offered by the American Red Cross, which trains more than 2.7 million people each year. Everyone needs a first aid kit on hand.
Emergencies can happen any time and anywhere.
You should never assume someone else will have an easily accessible first aid kit when you need one. According to Ms. Pankey, first aid kits should be stored where they can quickly and readily accessed. Some supplies, such as first aid ointment, have expiration dates. So it s easy to remember, Ms. Pankey recommends checking and updating the contents of first aid kits at the same time you check the batteries in your home s smoke alarms, which is usually done at daylight savings time. For first aid kits stored in cars, check the bandages to make sure the adhesive tabs are still effective.