Summer is fun but has its  downside too. It arrives with problems such as

• sunburns
• cuts
• ticks
• poison ivy
• infected bug bites
• eye injuries
• broken bones

You have to know that these problems can be easily prevented or treated if you are prepared for them.

Must haves on your shopping list for summer first aid kit

When shopping for your summer first aid kit, these items are essential and should be included .

• pre-made first aid kit : Get a large kit  with extra space  to add what you want to include. You have to make sure the kit contains band aids, tape, gauze, antibiotic ointment,  anti-itch or steroid ointment.
• water bottle for cleaning out wounds
• benadryl : The first line of defense for insect bites, hives, and other  allergic reactions
• numbing spray : This can be purchased over the counter and will hep when the child has burns , painful scrape or bruise
• EpiPen or Auvi-Q : if you have a family history of anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction), ask your doctor about prescription EpiPen or Auvi-Q. Keep this with you all the time
• ibuprofen and tylenol  : For children, make sure it is the liquid kind
• prescription medication : Ask your doctor for extra prescription that you use  frequently for conditions such as asthma  and allergies and keep it in the kit
• bug spray : Take note that the best repellant are those that contain 30% DEET.
• sunscreen : you need  sunscreen to cover areas of the body  not covered by clothing and hat
• hydrocortisone spray : This  over the counter medication will treat anything that itches from poison ivy to insect bites.
• baby wipes for cleaning hands and wiping noses
• flashlight / headlamp: If the light on your phone is not reliable, include an LED flashlight or headlamp
• chapsticks to soothe cold sores , sunburn lips or lip injuries
• alcohol wipes to sterilize first aid instruments such as scissors
• clean towel to help you set up the  first aid station and clean wounds
• ACE bandage : This is the first line of treatment for sprains and strains. They can also be used for holding bandages in place on bigger wounds and holding splints on fractures
• tweezers and magnifying glass can be use used for splinters. They can also be used for removing bugs for ears and fishing hooks from fingers