What to put in a first aid kit

All homes, cars, leisure centres and workplaces should have first aid kits. Find out what first aid supplies you need.

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In an emergency situation you may have to act quickly, so it’s important to be familiar with your first aid kit and know what to use for different injuries. First aid kits are usually in a green box with a white cross and should be easy to find.

The contents of first aid kits in workplaces or public places should be guided by your first aid needs assessment. For more information about what should be in your workplace first aid kit, please read our Workplace first aid kit buying guide . For more information on first aid kits for schools, please read our First aid equipment for schools page.

For your home or car, you can buy a first aid kit or put the items together yourself in a waterproof, clean container.

The following items are the basic contents of a first aid kit, with explanations of what to use when:

Sterile dressings

Wound dressings

Dressing pads attached to a roller bandage are the most useful bandage. They are easy to apply and so are ideal for an emergency.

Types of wound dressings include:

Adhesive dressings or plasters

These are made from fabric or waterproof plastic and can be applied to small cuts and grazes. If you work with food, you’ll be required to use blue plasters. Gel plasters can be used to protect blisters.

Types of adhesive dressings or plasters include: