ST JOHN AMBULANCE: What should be in a first aid kit?

All first aid kits should be clearly marked and kept in a clean, dry area that is easy to access.

If it is kept in a cupboard there should be a sign on the outside.

The first aid kit should be checked regularly to ensure that:

• All the items are in stock.

• Items are in date.

• The packing is undamaged.

As a minimum, a first aid kit should contain the following:

• 20 adhesive dressing (plasters) of assorted sizes.

• Six medium sterile dressings.

• Two large sterile dressings.

• Two eye pads.

• Four triangular bandages.

• Six safety pins.

• Disposable non-latex gloves.

• Two small plastic bags for disposal of soiled wipes and dressings.

• One guidance card and contents list.

Other useful contents include:

• Two crepe roller bandages.

• Round edged scissors.

• Gauze square swabs.

• Adhesive tape.

• Notepad and pencil.

• Resuscitation face shields.

• For those looking for quick, easily accessible first aid information, the St John Ambulance app is available free on smartphones and the website (www.sja.org.uk) offers demo videos, an interactive game, and lots of free advice. For more information about first aid courses please call 0303 003 0101.

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