What to put in a home first aid kit for outages: standard supplies, personal medications, special needs and why to check with a clinician.
- Stock core supplies and a printed first aid guide, and check expiry dates twice a year.
- Ask a pharmacist or clinician about medicines, spare supplies and what to do if you cannot refill.
- Never rely on a kit for serious problems; call emergency services.
When the power is out, a minor cut or sprain still needs care, and getting to a clinic may be harder than usual. A well stocked first aid kit, plus a plan for prescription medicines, is a core part of outage readiness.
This guide lists common contents. It is general information, not medical advice. Ask a pharmacist, doctor or nurse what suits your household, and take a first aid course if you can.
Core supplies
A basic kit usually includes items to clean, cover and support injuries. Look at the contents of a pre-made kit from a recognized safety organization, and add to it.
- Adhesive bandages in several sizes
- Sterile gauze pads and rolls, and medical tape
- Elastic bandage for sprains
- Triangular bandage or sling
- Antiseptic wipes or wound cleaning solution
- Disposable gloves, non-latex if anyone has an allergy
- Tweezers, scissors and safety pins
- Digital thermometer (with spare batteries)
- Instant cold packs
- CPR face shield or pocket mask
- Emergency blanket
- A printed first aid guide
Personal medications and medical needs
Prescription medicines are the most important item many households forget. Ask your pharmacist about keeping an extra supply on hand, and about what you should do if you cannot reach the pharmacy. Keep medicines in their original containers with labels, and note any that need refrigeration or temperature control. Our medical devices guide covers equipment that needs power.
- A written list of each person's medicines, allergies, conditions and doctors
- Spare glasses, contact lens supplies or hearing aid batteries
- Items for chronic conditions, such as glucose testing supplies or an inhaler, as your clinician advises
- Any emergency medicine your clinician has prescribed, such as an epinephrine auto injector, kept in date and within reach
- Over the counter items your household uses, chosen with a pharmacist and used only as the label directs
Extras for outages and storms
- Flashlight or headlamp with spare batteries. See headlamps and lanterns.
- Soap, hand sanitizer and wet wipes
- Sunscreen and insect repellent in warm weather
- Hand and foot warmers in cold weather
- Oral rehydration supplies, if recommended by your clinician
- Whistle, to signal for help
- Small notebook and pencil for recording symptoms and times
If you have babies, older adults or pets, adjust the kit. See babies and toddlers, older adults and pets.
Where to keep it and how to maintain it
- Keep a main kit in a known, easy to reach spot, and a smaller kit in each vehicle and in your 72 hour kit.
- Store kits in a cool, dry place in a sturdy, clearly marked container. Heat and moisture can spoil supplies.
- Check expiry dates twice a year, for example when you change your clocks, and replace what is used or expired.
- Make sure every adult knows where the kit is and what is in it.
When a kit is not enough
A kit helps with minor problems and with stabilizing someone until help arrives. It is not a substitute for medical care. Call emergency services for chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding, signs of stroke, serious burns, head injuries, poisoning, or anything that looks serious. If phones are down, plan how you would reach help. Use a radio for updates, and see our family communication plan.
Take a certified first aid and CPR course. Many national and local organizations offer them, and hands on practice builds confidence you cannot get from a booklet. Add the kit to your overall outage plan.
Finally, think about who is in your home. Children, older adults, people with chronic conditions and pets all have different needs, so ask each person's clinician or your vet what to add. Write down emergency numbers, including your local poison information line, and keep them inside the kit lid so they are easy to find in the dark.
Quick answers
What is the most overlooked item in a first aid kit?
Often a current list of medicines and allergies. Keep a written copy with the kit.
Should I include pain relievers or other medicine?
Ask your pharmacist or clinician which suit your household, and use them only as the label and clinician direct.