1. First aid manual:
Every single First Aid kit should contain a first aid manual. They are pretty easy to follow and should be studied before a crisis arises. Everyone with access to the kit should know the basics of First Aid by potentially going on an Emergency First Aid at work course.

2. Disposable gloves:
You see them on event First Aid cover staff. You see them at the dentist but when dealing with First Aid at work or any other type of First Aid incident for that matter always wear your gloves. The most important person in First Aid situation is always the First Aider. Gloves provide clean fingers for the victim’s benefit and provide a barrier for the rescuer’s benefit. Win-Win!

3. Elastic bandages/plasters:
In the good old days, they were called plasters. Some kids are allergic to the “sticky stuff” and so plasters aren’t included in school First Aid kits anymore. But for us, they made the cut… Consider purchasing a box of assorted sized bandages and putting a few of each in the kit. They’re the most used component in a First Aid kit so stock up. Especially if you’re acting as Event First Aid cover!

4. Instant cold pack:
This one especially for you salespeople out there who love a bit of rugby on the weekend but need to be your dashing best come Monday morning. Awesome to prevent swelling and nasty bruises. You don’t need to attend any First Aid courses to understand how they work but you should get used to either breaking or cracking or twisting. We’re team twist!

5. Scissors:
Last but certainly not least. Scissors or shears are really versatile and come in really handy. Bandage scissors or trauma shears have a specially designed edge that allows them to be used next to the victim’s skin without cutting the victim. They’re more rounded than your scissors at home and don’t appear to look sharp – make sure they are! You never know when you’ll have to cut through the leather to help someone. Also used to cut splints, remove clothes, or to cut tape and gauze. Just generally an absolute must!

At the end of the day, if you’re the one who’s been given the responsibility of going on First Aid courses in the workplace or H&S manager for an organisation. Ensuring a full and well placed First Aid kit ready to tackle any situation is key.

However, and it’s in bold for a reason. As a First aider, people are counting on you to be that person who doesn’t just stop and stare. We need you to act with confidence and decisiveness but more often than not, you won’t have the world’s best First Aid kit to hand. Be adaptable, and be ready to use what you can.

Don’t have bandages, use a T-shirt.

No ice pack to hand, grab some peas.

The ingredients can be subbed but the skills cannot. If you feel you lack the confidence to act when needed or would simply like to complete your accreditations in First Aid, please have a look at our First Aid courses London based.

At Siren training, our core business is delivering high-quality First Aid courses London based. Our trainers are made up of current and former Firefighters who simply refuse to allow boring First Aid courses to existence.

Follow us on Twitter, check up on your First aid kit, and have a fantastic day!