First Aid Kit Basics: How to Build and Store One at Home, Work, and On the Go

What is a first aid kit?

A first aid kit is a collection of basic supplies used to manage minor injuries and sudden health issues, such as cuts, scrapes, burns, sprains, or nosebleeds. While ready-made kits are widely available, many people choose to build their own so the contents suit their household, workplace, vehicle, or recreational needs.

Having a well-organized, accessible first aid kit supports quick response and reduces stress during unexpected situations.

Why first aid kits matter in Canadian homes and workplaces

In Canadian homes, workplaces, vehicles, and outdoor settings, minor injuries can happen at any time. A readily available first aid kit helps:

Address small injuries before they worsen
Support workplace safety programs
Reduce unnecessary trips for minor care
Improve confidence when responding to everyday incidents

First aid training often emphasizes that supplies are only useful if they are easy to find and up to date.

Scenario: A small injury, handled quickly

While preparing dinner, a family member accidentally cut their finger. Because a first aid kit was stored in a nearby kitchen cabinet, another household member quickly cleaned the wound, applied a bandage, and helped prevent further bleeding. The situation was managed calmly and efficiently thanks to easy access to supplies.

Choosing a container for your first aid kit

The first step in building a kit is selecting a practical container. It should be:

Portable
Easy to open
Durable
Large enough to hold essential items

Common container options include:

Small tackle boxes
Plastic storage boxes
Resealable freezer bags (for compact kits)

The type of container often depends on where the kit will be stored and how often it will be moved.

Where to store your first aid kit

A first aid kit should be kept in a central, easy-to-reach location, not tucked away where it’s hard to access during an emergency.

Practical locations include:

Kitchen cabinet
Bathroom cabinet
Workshop or garage (clearly visible)
Vehicle glove compartment

Many people find it helpful to keep more than one kit, such as:

One at home
One in a vehicle
One at work or in a recreational space

This ensures supplies are available wherever an incident occurs.

Special considerations for car or boat first aid kits

For vehicles or boats, one often-overlooked but essential item is a cell phone. A phone allows emergency services to be contacted quickly if needed.

Important points to know:

A cell phone does not need an active service plan to call emergency numbers
Battery charge is critical
An older, unused phone can be kept specifically for emergencies

Communication can be just as important as medical supplies in urgent situations.

Medical information access

Although not physically stored inside most first aid kits, personal medical information should be easy to find in an emergency. This may include:

Medical conditions
Allergies
Emergency contacts

Clear access to this information helps responders provide appropriate care.

Common items for a basic first aid kit

A general-purpose first aid kit may include:

Adhesive bandages (various sizes)
Sterile gauze pads
Medical adhesive tape
Elastic bandages
Antiseptic wipes or solution
Alcohol wipes
Antiseptic hand cleanser
Tweezers
Bandage scissors
Exam gloves
Instant cold packs
Triangular bandages
Barrier device for CPR
Insect bite swabs

Kits should be checked regularly so used or expired items can be replaced.

First aid awareness and maintenance

A first aid kit is most effective when:

Supplies are replenished after use
Items are checked periodically
Everyone knows where the kit is stored

Pairing a well-stocked kit with basic first aid training supports safer homes, workplaces, and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it better to buy or build a first aid kit?
Both options work. Building your own allows you to tailor supplies to your needs.

How many first aid kits should a household have?
Many households keep at least two—one at home and one in the vehicle.

Should first aid kits be locked?
They should be secure but easily accessible, especially in emergencies.

Do first aid supplies expire?
Yes. Some items, such as antiseptics and cold packs, should be checked regularly.

Why is accessibility so important?
Supplies are only helpful if they can be reached quickly when needed.

Educational note

This article is intended for general first aid and workplace education. First aid kits support early response to injuries but do not replace professional medical care when needed.