First Aid

 Last month we learned how to stay warm without natural gas. This month we’ll discuss maintaining our physical and mental health during a disaster.

Week #1—Mental Health

Injuries, property damage, loss of comforts, and time spent waiting can challenge our mental health, especially for children. Include some items in each person’s 72-hour kit to take their minds off the situation and calm troubled emotions.

·      Familiar blanket, stuffed animal

·      Toys, games, puzzle books

·      Reading books, scriptures

Week #2—Physical Preparation

Emergencies are more physically demanding than normal life. Increase your physical activity now to prepare for the added demands of getting life back to normal.

Week #3—First Aid Kit

Basic first aid kits are inexpensive (299 pieces $18 – $20). If you already have a kit, check the dates and replace any items that expire within a year. Good first aid kits contain the following items:

·      First aid instruction guide

·      Bandages (small, medium, large), gauze pads

·      ACE bandage, self-adherent cohesive wrap

·      Adhesive tape, KT tape

·      Antiseptic wipes, Neosporin

·      Sunscreen, burn cream

·      Bug repellent, sting relief swabs

·      Eye wash, Q-tips

·      Thermometer, cold pack

·      Scissors, tweezers, safety pins

·      N95 medical mask, examination gloves

Week #4—Gather Medications

Gather a week supply of medications for each person, similar to going on vacation. Put them in each person’s 72-hour kit and replace expired items once a year.

·      Prescription medications

·      Vitamins, nutritional supplements

·      Pain reliever, antacids

·      Pepto Bismol, laxative

·      Benadryl

Extra Credit—Help Your Neighbors

During large emergencies, hospitals and medical facilities get overwhelmed quickly. Our neighborhood needs to be prepared to take care of ourselves.

We are compiling a list of people with medical training. It would be nice to have someone on every street in the neighborhood. Please let us know if you have even basic first aid skills.