Emergencies, by their nature, do not announce their arrival. They simply happen, and when they do, a well-equipped home has the supplies and knowledge to meet the challenges they present. Of course, everyone in your household, even small children, can and should be taught to dial 911 and communicate basic information to the operator. However, one of the easiest and most effective ways to deal with sudden emergencies until help arrives is to have a good first-aid kit handy and have everyone in the family prepared to use it effectively.
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Adults and older children can be trained to perform CPR and crucial first-aid techniques by attending classes. CPR and First-aid certification classes in Sacramento are available through the American Heart Association.
First aid supplies should be stored in a place easily accessible to adults but not to small children. Emergency numbers, such as those of family doctors, should be posted in a conspicuous place, such as the front of the refrigerator. Numbers can also be programmed into cell phones so that every member in the family has access to this information instantly. Be sure that all family members have work and cell phone numbers for every other family member in their phones.
It is a good idea to keep a brief medical history of each family member with your first aid kit. This list should include any major surgeries, allergies, or medical conditions of family members, along with any medications taken on a regular basis and their locations.
Pre-made first-aid kits are sold by pharmacies and the Red Cross, but you can also make your own. Simple get a box with a snugly-fitting lid, and in this box place the following:
- Adhesive bandages as well as gauze pads and tape.
- Tweezers, scissors, a flashlight, and cotton swabs.
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, and acetaminophen. Each should be included, but do not give aspirin to small children.
- Antibiotic cream and hydrogen peroxide for disinfecting wounds.
- An antihistamine for allergy attacks.
- You may also want to include cough syrup, decongestants, and other health aids, although these can also be kept where you store your medications.
John Demas, Sacramento personal injury attorney comments, “Having a well-equipped first aid kit is a good first step to minimizing the damage from home accidents. However, the kit is only as effective as the people who use it. If you do not know basic first aid procedures, take a class immediately and share the information with your family. One of the most important things to know in a home emergency is what you are capable of doing and what you should not attempt. First aid and CPR lessons help you understand these limits.”
About Demas Law Group: Demas Law Group, P.C., is a Sacramento personal injury firm located in Sacramento, California, with offices in 14 cities around the state. Demas Law helps victims who have suffered injuries in accidents from vehicle collisions, slip-and-fall accidents, workplace injuries, and other physical and emotional trauma.