Staying hydrated in a Kolkata summer
Water first, electrolytes when you sweat a lot, and signs to watch in older family members.
What goes in a home first-aid kit
A checklist for Kolkata homes, and how to keep it useful.
Most homes have a first-aid box. Few have one that is complete and in date when it is needed. Here is what we suggest keeping, and how to look after it.
For cuts and grazes: sterile gauze pads, a roll bandage, adhesive plasters in several sizes, antiseptic wipes or solution, and surgical tape. For sprains: a crepe bandage and an instant cold pack. Tools: small scissors, tweezers, a few safety pins and a digital thermometer.
Add a pair of disposable gloves, a printed card with emergency numbers and your family doctor’s number, and a list of everyone’s allergies and regular medicines.
Keep the kit in one place that every adult in the house knows, out of reach of children but not locked away. A second, smaller kit in the car or bag is useful for travel.
Check it every six months, perhaps when you change your clocks or before Durga Puja. Replace anything used or past its expiry date. Damp weather is hard on plasters and gauze, so store the kit in a zip pouch away from the bathroom.
First aid is for small injuries. For anything serious, go to a hospital or call for help.
