Safety and Security — FAQ
What should be in a good emergency first aid kit?
A quality kit needs adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, gloves, and a CPR mask. Advanced kits add trauma supplies like tourniquets, emergency blankets, and splints. Always include any personal medications and a first aid manual.
How often should I replace my first aid kit?
Inspect your kit every 6 months. Replace used or expired items immediately. Most sterile supplies expire in 2-3 years. Adhesive degrades faster in hot vehicles. After any emergency use, restock within 24 hours. Set calendar reminders—expiration dates sneak up on you.
Do I need an OSHA-compliant kit for my home?
No, OSHA compliance applies only to workplaces. However, OSHA-grade kits use higher-quality components and include supplies based on injury data, making them excellent for homes. The compliance standard ensures you're getting proven, effective supplies rather than filler items.
What's the difference between a first aid kit and a trauma kit?
First aid kits treat minor injuries like cuts, burns, and sprains. Trauma kits contain life-saving supplies for severe bleeding, airway obstruction, and chest wounds—tourniquets, chest seals, hemostatic agents. For most homes, a first aid kit suffices. Add trauma supplies for high-risk activities or disaster prep.
How do I customize my first aid kit?
Start with a quality base kit, then add personal prescription medications, EpiPens for allergies, extra asthma inhalers, and any condition-specific supplies. Include emergency contact numbers and medical information. Remove items you don't know how to use and replace them with supplies you can confidently apply.
What's the best size for a family first aid kit?
A family of four needs 300-450 pieces. This covers multiple simultaneous injuries and repeat incidents before restocking. The kit should include at least 50 adhesive bandages in various sizes, 20 sterile gauze pads, and ample tape. Larger families or those with active lifestyles should size up to 500+ pieces.
