As we start to hit better weather days, we will be able to enjoy more time outdoors! This means we should have a quality first-aid kit ready for any bumps and bruises we, or our friends and family, may run into.

Our friends at Good Neighbor Pharmacy compiled a great list of items for you to consider when putting together your kit at Sterling Pharmacy:

• Bandages: A collection of different sizes of bandages is a must-have in every first-aid kit. Add in some gauze, surgical tape, and a pair of scissors so you can handle larger or oddly shaped wounds.

• OTC Medicines: This should include anti-inflammatory pain relievers (like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium), acetaminophen, laxatives, antidiarrheals, and antihistamines.

• Antiseptic Wipes: You can use these to clean wounds on the go if you don’t have access to soap and water.

• Antibacterial Ointment: This is helpful to apply to wounds, especially if you’re outdoors or otherwise lack access to soap and water for thorough cleaning.

• Tweezers: This will allow you to remove splinters and ticks.

• Disposable Gloves & Plastic Bags: Disposable non-latex gloves come in handy if you have to bandage up someone else. Plastic bags provide a safe way to dispose of gloves, wipes, and any other material that’s contaminated with blood. It is also the best way to isolate ticks.

• Thermometer: A temporal artery thermometer, which takes your temperature from your forehead, is a great choice for a first-aid kit. Just make sure your first-aid kit has an extra set of batteries and a handful of individually wrapped alcohol wipes for wiping the sensor after use.