A first aid kit is a combination of medical provisions that are used in basic medical treatment, after an illness or injury. The contents of the kit may vary depending on your needs, but you will often find bandages, wipes, gloves, plasters or dressings within the kit. Items are sealed and sterile where necessary.
First aid kits are universally recognised as being green with a white cross but come in other colours, such as red for Burns Kits. First aid kits come in different sizes and can be either portable or fixed upon a wall in the workplace or at home.
There are different cases available for first aid kits, such as bags, pouches, carry cases and wall-mounted cases. You can learn more in our complete guide to first aid kits.RS have a great range of first aid supplies including first aid kits for up to 100 people and emergency equipment to meet many of your safety requirements whether you are working at home or in the workplace.
The first aid kit is designed for first response which may or may not be life-threatening. First aiders are there to offer basic first aid where emergency response is on the way to treat a patient. The kit supplies may be used to treat minor injuries like cuts or abrasions, but it a lot of cases the first aid supplies can be used to help prolong a life before paramedics arrive. The size of the kit can vary according to requirements and the number of people it serves.
Consider keeping a first aid box in your car (ideal for when you travel on holiday) or at home. This can be used in emergencies or to help others when needed. Usually, you find them at places of work or in public buildings. Specialist types of first aid kits, like burn kits, are very useful in kitchens or even the home to treat superficial burns.