Every emergency-preparedness plan should include a first-aid kit. Many commercial kits contain the basics and are a fine choice. You might also consider assembling a kit yourself by stocking a plastic, airtight container with the following products recommended by our medical experts:

• Disposable medical-exam gloves (latex or vinyl)
• Mouth-to-barrier devices for rescue breathing
• Thermometer (if battery-operated, include a fresh set of batteries)
• Adhesive bandage strips in a variety of sizes
• Roller gauze and gauze pads
• Self-adhering roller bandage
• Eye-wash solution to flush the eyes or as general decontaminant to prevent infections
• Antibiotic ointment or antiseptic wipes
• Burn ointment to prevent infections
• Calamine lotion
• Antihistamine (diphenhydramine or loratadine) for allergic reactions
• Hydrocortisone cream or ointment
• Nonaspirin pain relievers (acetaminophen and ibuprofen) for children
• Aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen for adults
• Medical tape
• Tweezers
• Scissors
• Anti-diarrhea medication
• Antacid for upset stomach
• Laxative
• Prescribed medical supplies and medicines
• Telephone numbers of emergency contacts (physicians, family, neighbors, nearby friends)

Consider customizing the kit for hazards common to the area where it will be used, the medical history of those it will serve, or the training of those who may use the kit.

If you have pets, you may want to pack a separate first-aid kit. Consult with your vet for advice specific to your pets. Dog owners can go to the Web site of the American Veterinary Medical Association, www.avma.org.

For information on emergency preparedness and response, check out these Web sites:

• The National Safety Council, www.nsc.org
• The Red Cross, www.redcross.org
• The Mayo Clinic First-Aid Guide,www.mayoclinic.com/findinformation/firstaidandselfcare/index.cfm
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov
• The US Department of Homeland Security, www.ready.gov/first_aid_kit.html