Essential medicines that should always be in a first aid kit

Having a first aid kit at home, in the office, in the car, or even inside one's daily bag allows a person to prevent sickness and injuries fast. Public health and safety professional Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, shares the most important medicines that should always be inside your first aid kit.

Image source: timesnownews.com

Image source: timesnownews.com

Pain-relievers
Ibuprofen, paracetamol, and acetaminophen are some of the most common pain relievers one can easily stock up on. Some of these medications can also address the discomfort caused by cough, colds, and flu. These medications are necessary to prevent inflammation, fever, and body pain.

Antihistamine and autoinjectors
If the individual or someone in the family has a known allergy, it's always important to have extra tablets or epinephrine shots nearby. These medications can address simple to severe allergic reactions, bringing quick relief especially for those who experience symptoms such as itching and breathing difficulties.

Antacid
An upset stomach, indigestion, heartburn, and hyperacidity don't always require a trip to the emergency room. With the right medication, one can be relieved of the discomfort caused by these ailments.

Anti-diarrhea medication
This is important for those who are fond of camping or traveling. Since there's a high chance for outside food to be contaminated, it's best to have anti-diarrhea tablets in the kit to prevent pain and discomfort.

Ointment, creams, and lotions
According to Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, calamine lotion, hydrocortisone, antiseptic creams, and other topical medication should be in the first aid kit to protect irritated skin due to injuries, insect bites, and allergies.

Instead of not knowing where to get supplies when the need arises, it's best to keep an inventory of the items inside the first aid kit. Having a well-stocked kit will help people address sickness and injury quicker.

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, is an officer in the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service and has rendered over 10 years of service in occupational safety and health. For more articles like this, check out this blog.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.

What to do during a flash flood

Image source: nbcnews.com

Over the past few years, the weather has become more and more unpredictable. As the world combats this climate crisis, there are now unique and old threats to public safety. A lot of places that weren’t prone to floods before are starting to get affected, and people need to know how to respond to these emergencies appropriately. Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders believes that knowing what to do during these emergencies can keep you safe. If you are caught in a flash flood, here is what you need to do.

If you live in a low and flood-prone area, tune in to your local weather or TV station and pay attention to the weather updates. Local officials will advise residents on what steps to take and inform people of any relevant weather activities.

If you are stuck inside a vehicle inside a flood and you notice that the water is starting to rise quickly, vacate your vehicle and seek higher ground. Regardless of how big or heavy your car is, it can easily get swept away by fast-moving water. The last thing you want to be in is inside a vehicle getting swept away into deeper parts of the flood.

Image source: public.wmo.int

If you are outside and the water starts to rise, stay away from the direction of the floodwater’s flow. Don’t force your way into a flood as it is possible to get hit by debris being carried by the fast-moving water.

Lastly, always have an emergency kit in your home at all times. Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders notes that an emergency kit should have at least a gallon of water per person, medication, toiletries, a power bank for your phones, extra cash, blankets, clothes, map of the area, and a list of emergency contact numbers.”

Captain Martin Lloyd Sanders, Ph.D., CSP, formerly held the position of Director for Safety, Environmental Compliance and Emergency Management in Federal Occupational Health (FOH/PSC). He has the task of overseeing department-wide safety, environmental compliance, and emergency response policy. For more reads on emergency procedures and public safety, visit this blog.

Disclaimer: This site was prepared by Martin L. Sanders in his personal capacity. The opinions expressed are the author's own and do not reflect the views of the USPHS, the Department of Health and Human Services, or the United States government.