The shelf life problem
Over-the-counter medications have expiration dates. Ibuprofen, acetaminophen, antihistamines, and hydrocortisone cream all lose potency over time. Expired medications may still be safe but may not work at full effectiveness when you need them most.
Adhesive bandages lose their stick. Antiseptic wipes dry out in their packets. Elastic bandages lose elasticity. Latex and nitrile gloves degrade and can tear during use. These failures are invisible until you open the kit.
Supplies get borrowed. Someone takes the tweezers, uses the last butterfly closure, or grabs the cold pack for a sports injury. Without regular inventory, the kit empties gradually.
What to inspect and when
The American Red Cross recommends checking first aid kits at least once a year. A good trigger is the same day you check smoke detector batteries or when you change clocks.
Check every medication for expiration date. Replace anything expired or within three months of expiring. Check antiseptic wipes and ointment packets for integrity. If the packet is puffed, discolored, or feels dry, replace it.
Inventory supplies against your kit checklist. Replace anything that has been used, is damaged, or is missing. Check that scissors cut, that the thermometer works, and that gloves are intact.
Where it lives matters
A kit in the garage behind three storage bins is not accessible. Keep your primary kit in a location the whole household knows, accessible without moving other items. Common locations: kitchen pantry, hallway closet, or near the main exit.
Maintain a smaller secondary kit in each vehicle. Vehicle kits degrade faster due to temperature extremes. Check vehicle kits every six months.
If household members take prescription medications, include a list of medications, dosages, and prescribing doctors in the kit. This information is critical if someone else needs to manage care during an emergency.
- Check and restock first aid kits at least once a year
- Replace expired medications and dried-out antiseptic supplies
- Inventory supplies against a checklist, replace what has been used
- Keep the primary kit in a known, accessible location
- Check vehicle kits every six months due to temperature extremes
- Include a medication list with dosages and prescribing doctors