First Aid Kits - Being Prepared

Having a few first aid kits in your possession is always a good idea. Doctors and safety officials recommend that you have first aid kits available in your vehicle, home, and office. You never know when a medical emergency, serious or not, can occur. Being prepared is the best defense possible.

I now have three first aid kits. I keep one in my car, one in my kitchen, and one in a duffel bag full of emergency supplies. Ever since the tragedy of September 11, I have given a lot of thought to the safety and preparedness of my family. Having first aid kits available whether we are at home or traveling seems to be a necessity. Along with the kits I keep a flashlight, extra batteries, blankets, and food and water in case of an emergency. Whether it is a terrorist attack or tornado, I want my family to be prepared and protected.

First aid kits should contain rubbing alcohol or some other form of antiseptic, various sizes of bandages, pain relief medication, and anything that would be necessary for your family to be safe. One of my children is seriously allergic to bee stings so we must keep the appropriate medication in all of our first aid kits. These supplies can be found at any major retailer or drugstore or you can buy pre-made first aid kits at the same places.

Another handy item to keep with your emergency supplies is a weather band radio. I live in the Midwest and we are constantly on alert for tornadoes. I have seen them myself and watched as homes in my neighborhood were obliterated into tiny pieces which flew through the sky. I have been awakened by microbursts which blew out the windows in my neighborhood and knocked over ancient trees. I have witnessed numerous car accidents and been in a couple myself. Having emergency supplies and first aid kits readily available always helps me keep calm in these situations because I know that I am prepared to handle them.

It is always a good idea to be prepared. In our modern world where the threats of terrorist activity have become an everyday reality, you must to do everything you can to prepare and protect your family. Being prepared for any type of emergency will help you and your family remain calm knowing that everything is under control and everything is going to be all right. Having first aid kits readily available is just one step in a long list of things you can do to be prepared. Go to www.ready.gov for more information.