I hope you are getting out there and making the most of this time of year: road trips, hiking, beach days and picnics in the park.
Whatever your adventure, no one wants to end the day with an injury or spending the day in urgent care. A first-aid kit and a little preparedness can help avoid ruining your day and even worse outcomes.
What you bring in your first-aid kit or safety pack might change a little depending on the age of your kids and what activities you’re doing.
Let’s start with the basics: Take the heat seriously, protect the littles and yourself from sun exposure, and stay hydrated.
Family first-aid kit basics
Have a good first-aid kit in your home and your car and bring a small one with you when you travel or are away from home. There are many good lists of first-aid kit essentials out there and premade kits you can purchase. Generally, you’re looking to have the tools to treat minor injuries or to stabilize more serious injuries and medical conditions while you seek care.
Read the first-aid kit manual so you know how to use the contents. Better yet, if you have a chance to take a basic first-aid class, do it! It can make the difference in an emergency situation. Keep the first aid kit out of kids’ reach but where teens, sitters and others can find it easily.
Enjoy summer, but be prepared in the event of a mishap. (Stock image)
Beyond your well-stocked first aid kit, adding a few things that are specific to your family, their ages, or the types of outings you are going on can make a smoother and safer summer.
Beyond the basics:
- Add a few baby-specific things to your first aid kit if you have an infant, including a baby thermometer, medications like infant pain reliever such as Tylenol (after 12 weeks, if appropriate for your child) and other medications, and a nasal aspirator that can help relieve congestion.
- If your child gets nosebleeds, have nasal plugs and tissues or wipes in your travel first aid kid. (And maybe an extra shirt!)
- For those summer road trips, think about the car travel: If your child gets motion sickness, add nausea relief that works for your child (motion sickness bracelets or ginger chews can work well), a cold compress and disposable bags.
- You may be able to (discreetly) help out your teen in a pinch if you carry tampons and deodorant with you.
- When you head out into nature, bring the 10 hiking essentials and in particular with kids, make sure the extra food, water and warmth essentials are there.
- An emergency whistle is a great addition to give your child to carry in case they get separated from you.
- Give your child their own small adventure medical kit, water bottle and flashlight so they can learn to be prepared themselves and feel safer when in the outdoors.
First-aid kits and emergency preparedness are important year-round. They not only help you react quickly and appropriately to an emergency or injury, but they also help your child and your family feel safe and prepared.
Your “on the go” first-aid kit might be different than what you keep at home, and be sure to account for any particular needs of small children. (Photo: iStock)
