First-Aid in a Coffee Can
Emergencies can happen anywhere, especially when we least expect them. A sudden change in routine or a mistake of someone else may end up needing medical attention. They can happen at home, at work, at the park, at a sporting event or even on the farm; all of these are at risk of an emergency to happen. It is impossible to eliminate all emergencies but we can prepare in hope’s to save a life if an emergency were to occur.
A first-aid kit may seem life nothing but it can be the difference between life and death. We often think that a kit only includes some band-aid and tape which would be useless in most emergency situations, but it includes more than we think. Having the proper supplies in and proper knowledge on how to use the items can save a life, even if that means a guide book is included in the kit.
Some might be unaware of the law enforced by the Canadian government, but it is mandatory that all workplace settings must have a first-aid kit on site, that includes the proper supplies and it is continually stocked when needed. Workplace injuries are continuing to rise throughout Canada and has been recognized that some don’t have any access to first aid until first responders arrive. Whether it is at home, in a motorized vehicle, or placed in the farm machinery, having a first aid kit on site can save you, family, friends and co-workers.
An easy and inexpensive way to ensure people have proper first aid is by making their own DIY first-aid kit in a coffee can! Coffee cans are the perfect size to store all the useful items. Not to mention, they are recycled, water tight and durable. The following is a list that may be needed in an emergency:
- Emergency contact list
- Mini first aid guide
- Bandaids
- Gloves
- Adhesive tape
- Garbage bag
- Small zip-lock bags
- Large pressure dressing
- Antibiotic ointment
- Alcohol swabs
- Assorted size gauze pads & rolls
- Triangle bandage & safety pins
- Bandage scissors
Some other optional items that cane be included are:
- Tweezers
- Dust mask or N95 mask
- Chemical Ice PACK
- Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen
Important numbers to include in a contact list are:
- First Responders (Ambulance, Fire, Police) → 911
- Poison Information → +1 (888) 310-1122
- Crime Stoppers → +1 (800) 222-8477
References:
https://www.ohscanada.com/overtime/importance-first-aid-workplace-2/
Caprice Henning -co-op student from Elmira District Secondary School