During National Preparedness Month, the Los Angeles Fire Department asks you to...

Take a minute to check your family's first aid kit and note any depleted or expired items - then add them to your shopping list today!

Don't have a first aid kit?

Add that to your list or build a first aid kit yourself. The American Red Cross recommends that all first aid kits for a family of four include:

• 2 absorbent compress dressings (5 x 9 inches)
• 25 adhesive bandages (assorted sizes)
• 1 adhesive cloth tape (10 yards x 1 inch)
• 5 antibiotic ointment packets (approximately 1 gram)
• 5 antiseptic wipe packets
• 2 packets of aspirin (81 mg each)
• 1 blanket (space blanket)
• 1 breathing barrier (with one-way valve)
• 1 instant cold compress
• 2 pair of nonlatex gloves (size: large)
• 2 hydrocortisone ointment packets (approximately 1 gram each)
• Scissors
• 1 roller bandage (3 inches wide)
• 1 roller bandage (4 inches wide)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (3 x 3 inches)
• 5 sterile gauze pads (4 x 4 inches)
• Oral thermometer (non-mercury/nonglass)
• 2 triangular bandages
• Tweezers
• First aid instruction booklet

Whether you purchase a first aid kit or put one together, be sure to include an emergency supply of your prescription medications and a copy of your prescription, emergency phone numbers and other items your health-care provider may suggest.

Along with your home and car, know the location of the nearest first aid kits at work, recreation or worship, and encourage those in charge to inspect and restock them regularly.




Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department