What Should be in a First Aid Box​/Kit?

A properly stocked first aid kit contains wound care supplies, tools, and emergency items to handle common injuries and medical situations. Every home and workplace should have basic bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, scissors, gloves, and emergency contact information readily available.

In this guide, you'll learn the essential supplies for both home and workplace first aid kits, plus maintenance tips to keep your kit ready when emergencies happen.

The contents vary based on location, number of people, and specific risks. Workplace kits must meet provincial Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirements, while home kits can be customized for family needs.

Essential Wound Care Supplies

Wound care forms the foundation of any first aid kit. These supplies treat cuts, scrapes, burns, and puncture wounds.

Bandages and Dressings

• Adhesive bandages in assorted sizes (minimum 20 pieces)

• Sterile gauze pads: 2x2 inch and 4x4 inch (10 of each)

• Gauze rolls: 2-inch and 4-inch widths

• Triangular bandages for slings and large wound coverage (2 pieces)

• Elastic bandages for sprains and joint support (2-inch and 4-inch)

• Medical tape: hypoallergenic and waterproof varieties

  
  

Wound Cleaning and Protection

• Antiseptic wipes or solution (povidone-iodine or alcohol-based)

• Hydrogen peroxide for wound cleaning

• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection

• Burn gel or cool compresses for thermal injuries

• Instant cold packs for swelling and bruising

  
  

Medications and Treatments

Over-the-counter medications address pain, inflammation, and allergic reactions. Check expiration dates every six months. 

• Pain relievers: acetaminophen and ibuprofen (adult and children's formulations)

• Antihistamine tablets for allergic reactions

• Anti-diarrheal medication

• Oral rehydration salts

• Aspirin for heart attack situations (adults only)

• Prescription medications for known conditions (EpiPens, inhalers)

  
  

Inclusion of medications in the workplace first aid kit is not recommended. However, if the organisation determines to have medications in the first aid kit, then a physician is supposed to write policy and procedures for their use.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Proper tools ensure safe and effective first aid delivery. Quality instruments prevent injury during treatment.

• Medical scissors: trauma shears cut through clothing and tough materials

• Tweezers for splinter and debris removal

• Digital thermometer with disposable covers

• Disposable gloves: nitrile or latex-free options (minimum 10 pairs)

• CPR face shield or pocket mask

• Flashlight with extra batteries

• Emergency blanket (space blanket) for shock and hypothermia

  
  

Emergency Information and Documentation

Critical information enables faster emergency response and proper medical care continuity.

• Emergency contact numbers: local emergency services, poison control, family physicians

• Basic First Aid instruction cards or quick reference guide

• Medical information forms for family members or employees

• Pen and paper for recording incident details

• Emergency cash in small bills

  
  

Workplace-Specific Requirements

Provincial OHS regulations mandate specific first aid supplies based on workplace size and hazard level.

According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, workplaces with 2-15 employees require basic first aid supplies, while larger workplaces need comprehensive kits with additional items.

"Having the right supplies available can mean the difference between a minor incident and a major emergency," says Ahmed Kermalli, certified instructor and director at Lifesaver YEG. "But supplies are only as good as the person using them."

High-Risk Workplace Additions

• Eye wash solution and eye pads

• Burn dressings for heat-related injuries

• Splinting materials for fracture management

• Additional wound dressings for severe bleeding

• Stretcher or spine board for serious injuries

Maintenance and Storage

Proper kit maintenance ensures supplies remain effective when needed. Poor storage compromises medication potency and sterile packaging.

Storage Guidelines

• Store in cool, dry location away from direct sunlight

• Use waterproof containers with secure latches

• Keep medications in original packaging with labels

• Maintain temperature between 15-25°C (59-77°F)

• Ensure easy access during emergencies

  
  

Regular Maintenance Schedule

• Check expiration dates every six months

• Replace used or damaged supplies immediately

• Restock items after each use

• Update emergency contact information annually

• Test flashlight and replace batteries as needed

  
  

"A first aid kit is only useful if it's properly maintained," notes Ahmed. "We see too many kits with expired supplies when they're needed most."

Training Makes the Difference

Statistics Canada reports that workplace injuries affect over 925,000 Canadians annually, making proper first aid training essential for both home and work environments.

Basic First Aid training teaches proper wound care, medication administration, and emergency response procedures. Small classes provide hands-on practice with real scenarios you might face.

Intermediate First Aid provides comprehensive skills for workplace first aid attendants. Both courses include CPR-AED certification and meet provincial requirements.

Our blended learning combines online modules with in-person skills sessions. You'll receive immediate electronic certification upon completion.

Ready to Learn Proper First Aid?

Having the right supplies is the first step. Knowing how to use them properly makes all the difference in an emergency.

Find a course that fits your schedule. Our Basic First Aid (blended format, $100) and Intermediate First Aid (blended format, $140) courses are OHS approved and meet provincial requirements.

Book your seat today and gain confidence to handle emergencies properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I replace first aid kit contents?

Replace expired medications and sterile supplies every 2-3 years. Check dates every six months and replace items immediately after use. Adhesive bandages lose stickiness over time, while medications lose potency past expiration dates.

What size first aid kit do I need for my home?

A basic 25-piece kit serves most families of 2-4 people. Larger families or those with medical conditions need expanded kits with additional supplies. Consider one kit per floor in multi-level homes.

Can I make my own first aid kit instead of buying pre-made?

Custom kits often provide better value and specific supplies for your needs. Purchase individual components from pharmacy or medical supply stores. Ensure you include all essential categories: wound care, medications, tools, and emergency information.

What first aid training do I need to use these supplies effectively?

Basic First Aid covers wound care and emergency response basics. Intermediate First Aid provides comprehensive training for workplace attendants. Both include CPR-AED certification and meet provincial requirements.

Where should I store my first aid kit?

Choose easily accessible locations away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. Kitchen and bathroom storage often experiences temperature fluctuations. Consider bedroom closets, hallway cabinets, or dedicated first aid stations.

Do workplace first aid kits require different supplies than home kits?

Yes, workplace kits must meet provincial OHS requirements based on employee count and hazard assessment. High-risk workplaces need additional supplies like eye wash, burn dressings, and splinting materials. Consult your provincial OHS guidelines for specific regulations.