Flexible Spending Account first-aid kit must-haves

March is American Red Cross Month, a time when the country comes together to honor the thousands of volunteers and life-saving aid that the organization provides to disaster-stricken areas all over the world. The Red Cross also performs countless services throughout the U.S., and its many lifesaving classes have played a pivotal role in providing individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to respond effectively in emergency situations.

Of course, first responders are only as effective as the first-aid kits that they carry, and American Red Cross Month is the perfect time for parents, teachers and others to see if theirs are up to par. Best of all, with many products being Flexible Spending Account (FSA) eligible, individuals can save money and gain peace of mind in knowing that their first-aid kits are ready for any situation.

Here are a few must-have FSA eligible items for your kit:

1. Bandages

Every first-aid kit should contain a selection of bandages in various sizes, as well as sterile gauze pads, cloth adhesive tape to secure them and rubber gloves to protect individuals from bodily fluids and potential infections. Additionally, consider adding a few cloth wraps that can immobilize specific body parts that have experienced strains, and can double as an additional bandage in a pinch.

2. Antiseptics

Being able to clear a wound with dressings and antiseptics is a surefire way to help a patient stave off infection, so every kit should have a healthy supply of these items. Include absorbent compress dressings, antibiotic ointments and antiseptic wipes for wounds, as well as hydrocortisone ointments for allergic reactions and insect bites. Last but not least, add an instant cold compress to control any swelling that may arise after an injury.

3. Tools

Tweezers, medical scissors, a small flashlight and a digital thermometer are must-haves, and you may also want to include a facemask that can prevent the spread of germs when performing CPR resuscitation. Be sure to clean these items regularly to enhance their shelf life and reduce the risk of spreading germs during emergency situations.

4. Personal information

Last but not least, a first aid kit should contain a series of personal items like regular prescriptions and emergency contact information for doctors or close friends and family members. These late additions could play a pivotal role in ensuring that whoever is receiving first-aid will be given prompt care.

With hundreds of quality first-aid items available at FSAstore.com, use that FSA to your advantage. Make sure your kit is prepped and ready for whatever the spring and summer seasons have in store for you and your loved ones!