Emergencies can happen suddenly. Knowing what’s inside your first aid kit-and how to use each item-can help you act quickly and effectively. First aid kits are typically stored in a green box with a white cross and should be easy to locate.
First aid kit in workplaces or public areas should be stocked based on the types of risks people could encounter there. A first aid needs assessment is the best way to figure out what’s needed. If you need guidance, check out our Workplace first aid kit buying guide. For school-specific advice, visit our First Aid Equipment for Schools guide.
You can keep a home first aid kit or car first aid kit handy by buying a ready-made one or putting together your own in a clean, waterproof box.
Below is a checklist of essential first aid Kit, along with guidance on when to use each:
Sterile dressings
Wound dressings
Dressing pads with roller bandages are some of the most practical options. They're quick to apply and useful in emergency care.
Different Types of Wound Dressings:
- sterile wound dressing
- sterile eye pad
- sterile pad
- fabric plasters
- waterproof plasters
Adhesive dressings or plasters
An adhesive plaster is your go-to. These handy strips come in either breathable fabric or waterproof material-ideal for everyday scrapes.
If you’re preparing or serving food, blue adhesive plasters are essential. Their bright colour makes them easy to spot, helping to maintain hygiene standards in kitchens and catering spaces.
A gel-based adhesive wound dressing cushions the area and prevents further rubbing, so you stay comfortable while healing.
Common types include:
- Clear plasters
- Blue catering plasters
- Gel blister plasters
Bandages
Roller bandages
These are designed to support injured joints, manage swelling, maintain pressure on wounds and keep dressings secure.
Types of roller bandages include:
- conforming roller bandage
- open-weave roller bandage
- support roller bandage
- self-adhesive bandage
Triangular bandages
These are soft, foldable pieces of cloth that work perfectly as slings or bandages. You can wrap them around limbs for support or use them to secure dressings in place. If they come sealed and sterile, they’re also safe for covering large wounds or burns.
Tubular bandages
These keep dressings on fingers or toes in place, or support joints like elbows and knees. A special applicator is needed for gauze tubular bandages. Elasticated tubular bandages can be used to support injured joints, such as the elbow or knee
Protective items
Disposable gloves
If gloves are available, wear them whenever you're cleaning wounds, handling bodily fluids, or disposing of waste. Choose latex free gloves when possible, since some people may have latex allergies.
Infection Prevention and Control
A face shield or pocket mask helps shield you from possible infection while giving rescue breaths. It creates a safer barrier between you and the casualty, lowering the risk of cross-contamination during emergency care.
Additional Items
- Cleansing wipes: Used to gently clean the skin around the wound and for hygienic cleaning in any first aid situation.
- Gauze pads: Helpful as padding or to clean around wounds
- Adhesive tape: Secures bandages or dressings
- Scissors: Essential for cutting tape, bandages, or clothing
- Pins and clips: Keep bandages in place so the wound stays protected
- Aluminium blanket: Retains body heat in emergencies, essential for first aid and survival.
