Private Island First Aid Essentials
Much like on any home, on a private island safety translates into preparedness. It is important that every island home has a quality first aid kit that is available in the event that someone is ill or gets injured. A quality first aid kit provides two things
-Remedies for minor injuries and illnesses.
-The ability to stabilize an individual until they can receive medical attention.
We recommend that at least one island resident have at least basic first aid training as it will allow you to use these materials more effectively. It is also important that if you have an island caretaker that they are familiar with the first aid kit and have basc first aid training. Finally, examine the first aid kit on an annual basis to ensure that materials have not been damaged or expired. Here is a list of common first aid materials that you may want to have available on your island. Most of these products are available at any drugstore and should be kept in a cool, dry place.
- Cleansing agent/soap.
- Latex gloves.
- Sterile adhesive bandages in assorted sizes.
- 2 and 4 inch sterile gauze pads (4-6 of each).
- Triangular bandages (3).
- 2 and 3 inch sterile roller bandages.
- Scissors (ones that are dedicated specifically for emergencies).
- Safety pins.
- Tweezers (again ones that are dedicated specifically for emergencies).
- Needle.
- Sterile scrub brush.
- Q-tips.
- Eye-pads.
- Antiseptic/anti-bacterial ointment.
- Anti-itch ointment (Anti-histamine, hydrocortisone)
- Jug of distilled water.
- Moistened towlettes.
- Thermometer.
- Tube of petroleum jelly or other lubricant.
- Tongue Depressors.
- First Aid manual.
- Asprin/Tylenol or other pain reliever.
- Anti-diarrhea medication.
- Laxative.
- Antacid.
- Cold medication (whatever you typically use).
- Sealable/waterproof plastic bags.
- Emergency blanket.
- Chemical cold pack.
- Flash light (important if power is out).
- Sunscreen.
- Name and number of nearest hospital/doctor.
- List of all prescriptions used.
- List of any allergies family members have.
