In any emergency a family member or you yourself may be cut, burned or suffer other injuries. If you have these basic supplies you are better prepared to help your loved ones when they are hurt. Remember, many injuries are not life threatening and do not require immediate medical attention. Knowing how to treat minor injuries can make a difference in an emergency. Consider taking a first aid class, but simply having the following things can help you stop bleeding, prevent infection and assist in decontamination.

Knowing how and what types of first aid to use can prevent a more serious injury. Keep a Red Cross First Aid Manual with the First Aid Kit.

The Red Cross suggests that the kit include:

• Two pairs of Latex, or other sterile gloves (if you are allergic to Latex).
• Sterile dressings to stop bleeding.
• Cleansing agent/soap and antibiotic towelettes to disinfect.
• Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
• Burn ointment to prevent infection.
• Adhesive bandages in a variety of sizes.
• Eye wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant.
• Thermometer (Read more: Biological Threat)
• Prescription medications you take every day such as insulin, heart medicine and asthma inhalers. You should periodically rotate medicines to account for expiration dates.
• Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment and supplies.
• Poison First Aid Kit with syrup of Ipecac and charcoal
• Sterile first aid dressings in sealed envelope ( 2"x2" for small wounds, 4"x4" for larger wounds and for compress to stop bleeding)
• Tongue blades
• Bandage scissors
• Tweezers
• Safety pins
• Ace bandage
• "Band-aids"
• Roller bandage 1"x 5 yds. (for finger)
• Roller bandage 2"x 5 yds. to hold dressings in place
• Adhesive tape
• Triangular bandages for a sling or as a covering over a larger dressing
• Cotton balls for cleaning wounds or applying medication
• Splints 1/4" thick. 1/2" wide, 12-15" long for splinting broken arms and legs
• Ice packs (chemical ice bags) to use to reduce swelling
• Insect bite kit
• Waterless hand wash

There are many types of first aid kits available. Keep and maintain an appropriate kit on each major piece of farm equipment, truck, auto and in the barn, shop, and the home.

The Red Cross suggests that workers be certified in emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), the method used to restore the heartbeat and breathing. The administration of CPR may save the life of someone who has been injured or suffers a serious illness. A non-trained individual who gives CPR or first aid may cause harm.

Having an emergency plan in place saves times during an accident. Plan for every farm location, including the home, machinery sheds, barns and field. Know and practice what to do in case of an emergency.