First-Aid Kit Checklist for Indian Homes

Minor injuries and sudden illnesses happen in every home, whether it is a kitchen burn, a child's scraped knee or a late-night fever. Having a basic first-aid kit ready means you can act quickly and calmly.

Choosing and placing your kit

Use a sturdy box with a lid that closes well. Label it clearly and keep it in a cool, dry place that adults can reach easily but young children cannot. Make sure everyone in the house knows where it is. It is also useful to keep a smaller kit in your car or travel bag.

Wound care supplies

• Adhesive bandages in different sizes
• Sterile gauze pads and rolls
• Cotton wool
• Medical adhesive tape
• Crepe bandage for sprains
• Antiseptic solution or wipes
• Antiseptic or antibiotic cream as advised by your pharmacist
• Clean scissors and tweezers
• Disposable gloves

Basic medicines

Keep only medicines that you and your family have used safely before, and follow the dose on the label or your doctor's advice.

• Paracetamol tablets and paediatric syrup or drops if you have children
• Oral rehydration salts (ORS) packets
• An antacid for occasional acidity
• An antihistamine for mild allergies, if your doctor has recommended one
• Soothing calamine lotion for rashes and insect bites
• A burn gel or cream
• Saline nasal drops for blocked noses

Do not keep antibiotics in your first-aid kit for self-use. They should be taken only when prescribed.

Tools and other items

• A digital thermometer
• A small torch with spare batteries
• Safety pins
• An instant cold pack or a reusable gel pack
• A clean cloth or triangular bandage
• Hand sanitiser
• A pulse oximeter, which can be helpful during respiratory illnesses

Personal and family needs

Add items specific to your household.

• Spare doses of regular medicines for chronic conditions
• Glucose tablets or glucose powder if someone has diabetes
• An inhaler for family members with asthma, as prescribed
• Any emergency medicines your doctor has prescribed for severe allergies

Important information card

Keep a written card inside the kit with:

• Emergency numbers, including 112 for emergencies and 108 for ambulance services
• Your family doctor's number and nearest hospital
• Blood groups, allergies and major health conditions of family members
• A list of regular medicines

Simple first-aid reminders

• For minor burns, cool the area under gently running tap water for about 20 minutes. Do not apply ice, toothpaste, butter or oil
• For small cuts, wash with clean water, apply gentle pressure to stop bleeding and cover with a clean dressing
• For nosebleeds, sit upright, lean slightly forward and pinch the soft part of the nose for 10 minutes
• For sprains, rest the area, apply a cold pack wrapped in cloth and keep it raised

Check your kit regularly

Every three to six months, check expiry dates, replace used items and make sure the thermometer and torch work. Monsoon humidity can damage supplies, so keep the box tightly closed.

When to get help

A first-aid kit is for minor problems only. Seek medical help for deep wounds, large or serious burns, head injuries, breathing difficulty, chest pain, severe allergic reactions or any situation you are unsure about. Please consult a doctor whenever a symptom does not improve or seems serious.