In this week’s step toward self-sufficiency, we’ll focus on building your first aid kit and understanding how to use the tools you add. Because when disaster strikes, having a well-stocked first aid kit on hand can be the difference between a minor injury and a major emergency. 

We’ll also discuss the different types of thermometers and how to choose the best one for disaster preparedness. Additionally, we’ll highlight an essential preparedness action: sending photos of your family and pets to out-of-state family members for safekeeping.

First Aid Shopping List

This week’s shopping list includes the following essential first-aid supplies:

1. Scissors
2. Tweezers
3. Antiseptic
4. Thermometer
5. Disposable Hand Wipes
6. Sewing Kit
7. Waterproof Plastic Container for First Aid Supplies

Let’s break down the uses and importance of each item in your emergency first aid kit:

1. Scissors

Scissors are an indispensable tool in any first aid kit. They are used for cutting bandages, gauze, or medical tape and can even help remove clothing from a wound. Acting quickly and efficiently is crucial in an emergency, and scissors allow you to do just that. Consider a pair of small, sturdy medical scissors designed for first aid kits—they often have blunt tips to prevent accidental injury.

2. Tweezers

Tweezers are perfect for removing small objects like splinters, glass, or debris from wounds. In a post-disaster situation, the risk of minor injuries from debris is higher, so a good pair of tweezers is essential. Stainless steel tweezers are recommended for durability and ease of cleaning.

3. Antiseptic

Infections can turn a small injury into a life-threatening issue if left untreated. Antiseptic products, such as iodine, hydrogen peroxide, or antiseptic wipes, should be a staple in your kit. They can be used to clean wounds, disinfect cuts, and prevent infection, especially when professional medical help is unavailable. I especially like single-use antiseptic packets because they are always clean, and it’s easy to pop one in your pocket on a hike when you are not carrying your complete kit.

4. Thermometer

Monitoring body temperature is vital in diagnosing fevers, which can indicate infections or other health conditions. In a disaster scenario, illnesses are harder to manage, making a thermometer a critical tool. More on thermometers later in this article—we’ll explore which type is best suited for your emergency kit.

5. Disposable Hand Wipes

Cleanliness can become a serious challenge in an emergency. Disposable hand wipes help maintain basic hygiene and can be used to clean hands before treating wounds, ensuring that you don’t introduce bacteria or contaminants into an injury. They’re also useful for wiping down surfaces and keeping your first aid area sanitary.

6. Sewing Kit

While a sewing kit is commonly associated with mending clothes, it can also be a lifesaver in emergencies. Without immediate medical help, a sterile sewing kit can be used for emergency sutures or to repair torn clothing and gear. Ensure that your kit contains needles, thread, and safety pins, which can be sterilized if needed.

I also really like the butterfly suture kits they have out now, and I recommend keeping some in your supplies.

7. Waterproof Plastic Container for First Aid Supplies

A waterproof container is crucial to keep your first aid supplies dry and ready to use. Moisture can ruin bandages, compromise antiseptics, and cause rust on tools like scissors and tweezers. Choose a sturdy, waterproof container with a good seal to protect everything inside from the elements.

Types of Thermometers: Choosing the Right One for Disaster Planning

A thermometer is one of your first aid kit’s most important diagnostic tools. It allows you to monitor body temperature quickly and detect fevers. You need to know how to choose the best thermometer for your needs so that in a disaster scenario where medical assistance might be delayed, you are confident you have what you need.

Here are the most common types of thermometers:

1. Digital Thermometers

Digital thermometers are widely used and offer quick, accurate readings. They’re easy to read and often beep when they’re finished taking a measurement, making them convenient for people of all ages. Some digital thermometers are waterproof, which is helpful for cleaning and maintaining hygiene.

• Best for: General use. They’re fast, accurate, and affordable.
• Considerations: Requires batteries, so stock up on extras for long-term emergency planning.

2. Infrared (No-Touch) Thermometers

Infrared thermometers use heat sensors to take a temperature reading from the forehead. They’re a great option for reducing the spread of germs, as there’s no physical contact involved. These are often used in hospitals and clinics for their speed and non-invasiveness.

• Best for: Large families or groups where cross-contamination is a concern.
• Considerations: More expensive than digital thermometers and requires batteries.

3. Ear (Tympanic) Thermometers

Ear thermometers measure temperature inside the ear canal and are a favorite for children. They’re fast and generally easy to use, but they can be less accurate if they’re not positioned correctly.

• Best for: Children or anyone who has trouble using other types of thermometers.
• Considerations: May not be accurate if there’s earwax buildup or the positioning isn’t correct.

4. Mercury Thermometers

Though largely phased out due to safety concerns, some households still have mercury thermometers. While they are durable and don’t require batteries, the risk of mercury exposure if they break makes them less ideal for disaster kits.

• Best for: Long-term use if you can store it safely and understand the risks.
• Considerations: Handle with care. If broken, mercury thermometers can pose health risks.

Choosing the Right Thermometer for Your Kit

For disaster preparedness, a digital thermometer is often the best choice. It’s reliable, easy to use, and doesn’t take up much space. However, consider adding an infrared thermometer to your kit if you have children or plan to care for multiple people. It’s also wise to have a backup thermometer in case one fails, or the batteries die unexpectedly.

Action Step: Send Pictures of Your Family and Pets to Out-of-State Family Members

This week’s action step may seem unrelated to first aid, but it’s an important part of your overall preparedness plan: send current pictures of your family members and pets to relatives out of state. Here’s why this is a critical step in your emergency preparedness:

Why It’s Important

In the aftermath of a disaster, communications may be down, and families can get separated. By sending recent photos to someone out of state, you’re creating an additional layer of security. 

These pictures can help reunite family members who are displaced or missing. It’s much easier for authorities or volunteers to locate someone with a current photo, and having pictures on file with trusted family members increases the chances of everyone being safely reunited.

How to Do It

• Choose recent photos: Make sure the photos are clear and include distinguishing features, such as hair color, clothing, or any noticeable marks.
• Include pets: Pets are family too, and they can become lost during an emergency. Sending photos of your pets can aid in reuniting with them if they get separated from you.
• Multiple copies: Send digital copies via email or a cloud service for easy access. Also mail physical copies if possible, as digital services may not be available in a widespread power outage.

Taking this action can provide peace of mind, knowing that if anything happens, you have extra measures in place to help your family stay together and safe.

It’s About Thinking Ahead

Building a complete first aid kit is about more than just stocking up on supplies—it’s about knowing how to use them and thinking ahead. Consider taking a basic first aid course to sharpen your skills, which I discussed in more detail in Week 6.

From choosing the right thermometer to maintaining proper hygiene with hand wipes, each item in your kit has a crucial role in keeping your family safe. And don’t forget the importance of sending those family photos to relatives out of state—it’s a simple step that can make all the difference in an emergency.

Stay on track with these baby steps, and you’ll be better prepared for any situation that comes your way.