Wherever you go and whatever you do, you should be prepared for the unexpected. An accident or illness can strike without warning, and quick action can keep a bad situation from getting worse. These are some of the top emergency preparedness supplies you should always have close at hand.

Maintain a Well-Stocked First Aid Kit 

Be prepared to treat minor injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, bumps, sprains, and burns. Your first aid kit should include bandages in assorted sizes, gauze, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, hot and cold packs, burn cream, and over-the-counter pain relievers. 

If someone suffers cardiac arrest, receiving prompt treatment can dramatically improve the odds of survival and recovery. Make sure that your first aid kit contains CPR barriers so someone can provide assistance until an ambulance arrives. 

It’s also a good idea to invest in an automated external defibrillator (AED), especially if you operate a business. This device can deliver an electric shock and significantly increase a patient’s chance of survival. It’s easy to operate, and an employee, customer, or bystander with little or no training can use it to save someone’s life.

Make Sure People Have Access to First Aid Supplies

For people to use a first aid kit in an emergency, the kit has to be easily accessible. At home, keep a first aid kit or cabinet in a central location that everyone has access to, such as the kitchen. Consider getting a wall-mounted first aid cabinet so visitors will know exactly where supplies are located if an emergency occurs. 

If you’re looking for first aid supplies for your business, you might need two or more kits or cabinets. Figure out what makes sense for your company based on the number of employees you have, the types of jobs they do, and the size and layout of your building. 

Store first aid supplies in locations that are clearly marked and easy to reach. Point out those sites to new employees so they won’t have to waste time looking for supplies if someone needs help. You can also keep a first aid kit and AED in a public place so a customer will be able to step in and help, if necessary.

You should store a first aid kit in your car so you’ll be able to treat yourself or a passenger or help someone else who is injured in an accident. You can find a kit that contains essential supplies and that’s small enough to fit under a seat or in the glove box. 

Order First Aid Kits or Cabinets from 1^st Aid Supplies

Having first aid essentials on hand can allow you or someone else to spring into action and possibly save a life. 1^st Aid Supplies sells kits and cabinets in a range of sizes. You can find one or more solutions that will work for your home, business, or vehicle. Look at the first aid kits and cabinets that we offer and place your first aid kit order online today.