| What to Put in a Travel First-Aid Kit |
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By Steve Infanti
Scripps Howard News Service Q: We take several long road trips each summer. What items should we include in a first-aid kit? A: This summer millions of people will set out on vacation -- by car, airplane, train, boat, even bicycle. While the tires may already be kicked, suitcases packed, gas tank topped off and tickets in hand, travelers should also pack the first aid kit. "A lot of people feel that they can always buy first-aid supplies -- bandages, antiseptics and the like -- if the need arises," says paramedic Ralph Shenefelt, general manager of the American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) and adviser to bandage product maker Curad. "Emergencies can arise any time and frequently do during travel. Time, trouble and pain can be reduced just by being prepared with the proper supplies." Purchasing several portable first-aid kits, compact enough to fit easily into your glove compartment or backpack, is a great way to make sure you have first-aid supplies on hand when you need them, says Shenefelt. He advises kits that contain a variety of adhesive bandages, gauze pads, anti-motion sickness tablets and alcohol swabs, as well as antibiotic ointment, aspirin, tweezers and other useful items to help care for minor injuries. "In addition to basic first-aid items, don't forget to take along more personal items, such as prescription medications, including an epinephrine kit if anyone in your family is allergic to bee stings," says Shenefelt. Still, having a first-aid kit is no substitute for prevention. "The best way to deal with injury and illness is to prevent it," adds Shenefelt. Remember to get proper rest -- don't drive when tired --and to take a charged cell phone for emergencies. Send your questions to Steve Infanti, A Fit Life, 801e BAB, University Park, PA 16802 or e-mail SCInfanti@compuserve.com)
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