While it may be tempting to purchase whatever first-aid kit is on clearance at the local big box store, not all first-aid kits are made alike. A good first-aid kit will cover the spectrum of injuries-burns, cuts, bruises, insect bites, splinters, scrapes, etc.-and include high-quality components. First-aid kits that have been sitting around the store shelf for a while may contain expired medications or ointments.

{relatedarticles}

Here are some important medicines, creams or ointments that will be included in a good first-aid kit:

• Antibiotic cream
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Calamine lotion
• Antihistamine
• Ibuprofen
• Acetaminophen
• Alcohol (wipes for the purse or car)
• Antiseptic (cream or spray)
• Kaopectate® or Pepto-Bismol®