First aid kits are everywhere – in homes, businesses, and cars – and they have helped save countless lives. It might be hard to imagine a time when first aid supplies weren’t readily available in practically any location, but the first aid kit is a relatively new concept.
Inspiration for First Aid Kits
Robert Wood Johnson, the founder of the Johnson & Johnson medical supply company, came up with the idea for the first aid kit in 1888 when he struck up a conversation with a fellow passenger on a train. The passenger, who was the railroad’s chief surgeon, explained that when workers got injured, it was difficult to quickly get them to places where they could receive medical care.
Johnson realized that having sterile medical supplies nearby would make it easier to treat injured workers. Patients could be stabilized, and they could then be taken to another location if they needed more extensive medical care.
What Early First Aid Kits Looked Like
First aid kits initially consisted of metal boxes that protected supplies from damage. The boxes were often decorated with bright colors. Some organizations produced their own first aid kits that included the name of the group on the outside. Specialized first aid kits were made to address specific challenges or to provide unique advantages over other kits.
At first, supplies were packed loosely. As packaging developed, first aid supplies were stored individually in small cardboard boxes.
Order First Aid Supplies
First aid kits have come a long way. They’re now available in a wide range of sizes and include some supplies that didn’t even exist when early kits were sold.
You should have at least one first aid kit in your house or place of business, as well as in each vehicle you drive. If you have a large home or workplace, or if you need supplies for a significant number of people, you might need to get two or more kits and place them in different locations throughout the building.
You can buy first aid kits or cabinets from 1st Aid Supplies. We offer first aid kits that can be stored on a shelf or in a drawer or vehicle, as well as cabinets that can be mounted on a wall. Our kits include bandages in assorted sizes, antibiotic ointment, gauze, tape, gloves, hot and cold packs, over-the-counter medications, and other supplies that can be used to treat a wide range of common injuries.
Figure out what medical supplies you need, then place your order online with 1st Aid Supplies.