The idea of first aid actually dates all the way back to medieval times when knights would patch each other up after a battle. Now, we use the term a little more broadly but the same basic concept. So what's first aid? It's right there in the name: first aid is the first but of care you get before further treatment. While it sounds easy enough the truth is that it can be a little tricky because you never know what injury you might be treating (if we could pinpoint how and when we'd get hurt then we'd probably just avoid it altogether) therefore the best course of action is to be over prepared so that no matter what you might be faced with, you're covered. I, as a medic, have come up with this handy guide to help you. I've put together a very thorough list of just about everything you might need for your go bag emergency kit.
First off, I recommend laying a base with a pre-filled kit like the Small First Responder EMT EMS Bag from Lightning X. Starting with a pre-filled kit is just easier so you at least have some supplies already gathered. Moving onto the additions, you always want to starts with the ABC's: airway, breathing, and circulation. These are super important and you want to make sure you know what you can do in these areas and have the right tools. Thankfully, in addition to run of the mill items like bandages, gauze, a gloves, the pre-made kit above includes a stethoscope, CPR shield, Oropharyngeal airway kit, and pen light but you will need to add a few more things to make sure your ABC's are covered.
- N95 specific to mold
- Inflatable rescue ring to prevent drowning,
- Portable oxygen like this can from Boost.
- SPo2 Monitor that measures your blood oxygen levels is always a good idea. Knowing blood oxygen levels can be useful information for 911, and this will also show you when your treatment is working.
- A tourniquet (tip: you can also use a blood pressure cuff in a pinch).
- Styptic powder or pen which helps stops bleeding of minor cuts and nicks.
In addition to the ABC items you need above, if anyone in your household uses any rescue breathing medications or devices ( like inhalers) make sure those are packed in your first aid kit as well. Also keep in mind that if anyone in your household is on blood thinners you will need extra bandages and you will also need to let 911 know that information.
All the items above should be at the top of your list since not having them could cause the most harm. But, there are a few more items that I have in my go bag first aid kit that I recommend. You bag might have some of these things already, which is great, but going with our recommended go bag above, you might need to fill in with the items below.
- These inflatable splints are perfect support for an injury but won’t take up a ton of room.
- Benadryl and Tylenol because allergies and pain relief are both critical in a kit.
- More tape! 1 roll won’t cut it in an emergency.
- A lighter is a great multifunctional tool to include. In a pinch you can cauterize a small wound, provide fire for warmth, and of course some light.
- I always include some safety pins. You can use them to hold together a makeshift sling, close a wound, poke a hole in something and more.
- Throw in a black permanent marker. If you've administered first aid and there's something that need to be documented ( you gave them Benadryl, or glucose gel, they are on blood thinners, etc) write it directly on the person or on something visible that can be attached to them while they are transported to the hospital.
- Enough thermal blankets for everyone in your household.
- Extra PPE like masks, gloves, and face shields.
- Some protein bars. You will likely have some of these in your food supply but it can't hurt to throw some extra in with your first aid kit just in case.
- I like to take a Queen sheet, fold it super flat and put it at the bottom of my bag. It can be used as bandages, ties onto thick stick to make an emergency cot to carry someone, can provide shade if you're in the open, and more.
- An ice pack. You want ones that can be activated and provide instant cold, not the ones you usually keep in the freezer or a cooler since those will melt.
- Last, and adjustable cervical collar in adult and also one for kids if you have any.
I would also recommend, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters to take a first aid course or at least get a first aid book and studying up on basic first aid before you actually need it. Hopefully you never need it, but if you ever do you'll be more prepared.
