First Aid Kits - immediate treatment for all injuries

There is nothing more frightening than when someone in your household suffers an injury, particularly if it is a child.  Accidents are an unfortunate part of life, and sadly despite our best efforts to make everything safe and secure, something could still go wrong.   

One of the most accident-prone rooms in the home is the kitchen, and whether you are young or old, you can become injured in the home, which is why first aid kits are important.Common causes of accidents in the home include:

·         Cutting yourself with a knife whilst chopping food.

·         Falling down the stairs, falling off a step ladder or footstool, or tripping over something on the floor.

·         Getting burnt from hot/boiling water in a saucepan or kettle.

·         Slipping whilst getting out of the bath or shower.

·         Poisoning through consuming medications or chemical substances, i.e. cleaning liquids (most common in younger children).

When you think about all of the possibilities of how an accident might occur in your home it can be quite concerning, particularly where children are concerned.  In children the most common cause of home injury is falling, most commonly whilst playing on the stairs.  After falls, the next most common injury in children is poisoning.  This is most common in children under four years old, and occurs when they consume medications or chemical products. 

                                                                       

Although we can’t prevent every accident, ensuring we keep things as safe as possible, for example, locking away medicines and keeping chemicals out of reach, can help prevent your child being poisoned.  However, when an accident occurs it is important to react calmly to treat the injury as best as you can by using your first aid kit.

First aid kits for the home contain useful and essential supplies including plasters; dressings; eye dressings; triangular bandages; antiseptic wipes; disposable gloves; and dressings for burns.  By keeping a well-stocked first aid kit in your home, you know that if a loved one becomes injured you can ease their suffering whilst waiting for an ambulance or whilst taking them to the hospital if this is necessary. 

 In addition, first aid kits for the home contain items that are easy to use and come with an information leaflet to provide guidance on how to use everything if you are unsure.   But remember, it is important to seek professional medical attention with many injuries as a first aid kit can only help.