Here’s everything you need to have on hand
Accidents happen, especially when there are little ones running around over the Summer holidays.
That’s why you always need to be prepared for the cuts and the bruises of everyday playtime.
Many people don’t know what they should have in their first aid kits, but don’t worry, we’ve made a list of all the first aid essentials you’ll need to stock up on ahead of the Summer break with the help of Urban Matters.
Adhesive bandages
This is a pretty obvious one but it’s a vital component in a first aid kit.
They’re designed to cover small cuts, abrasions and blisters and they’re crucial for preventing infection.
Picking up adhesive plasters in a variety of different shapes and sizes is a must just so you’re confident about covering any cut.
Sterile and antiseptic wipes
With every cut, blister or rash means a sterile wipe. The cut must be cleaned with a clean, sterile wipe to prevent any infection growing and to ensure all dirt and dust is out of the wound.
Just like the bandages, it’d be a good idea to pick these up in a variety of sizes.
Always have a tweezers
Tweezers are an essential for the first aid kit and are mainly used to remove splinters, thorns, ingrown hairs or any other onject that’s embedded in the skin.
In saying that, make sure you sterilise the tweezers before and after use and pick up a stainless steel one – they’re always the easiest to clean.
Pain relief
It’s important to have pain relief easy when at home and although taking pain relief must be monitored carefully, they are needed if your child is in a lot of pain.
Paracetamol can be used for mild to moderate pain in babies over one month old. Ibuprofen can be used for children and teenagers but remember, never give aspirin to your child if they are under 12 years, unless it is advised by your doctor.
A couple of ice packs
Ice packs are miracle workers.
If your child fell in the playground and banged their knee – ice pack. If they got a bang out playing hurling with friends or cousins – ice pack.
Ice packs are also great for relieving headaches and in the Summer heat, many kids would benefit hugely from an ice pack.
There are many options of ice packs that you can pick up. From instant ice packs that can be activated by squeezing or pressing it to the standard freezer packs that are kept frozen until needed.
Burn gel
An absolutely essential in a first aid kit whether you have children or not. Burns can happen so quickly and are very painful and can leave scars anywhere on the body.
Having a good burn gel or ointment available is very important.
When picking up a burn gel, make sure you have one that will treat all types of burns whether it be a heat or chemical burn.
Having an aloe vera plant at home as back up also wouldn’t be a bad idea.
Medical gloves, masks and a thermometer
Stock up on the basics that including medical gloves and masks – these are simple but are often forgotten about.
Not only are you creating a barrier between your skin and the wound but you’re safe and the child you’re treating is safe too.
Do consider non-latex gloves when you’re picking them up though because so many people are irritated by latex.
Having a thermometer in your first aid kit is a no-brainer especially with kids in the house.
Children pick up so many illnesses in school and often taking their temperature is a clear indication of how sick they are.
