Difference between a First Aid and Bleeding Control kits

Let us be clear: they are not interchangeable!

• First aid kits can be used to treat minor injuries like scrapes, minor cuts, burns, and sprains. Kits may contain the following – bandages, dressings, antiseptic wipes, hydrocortisone ointment, medical tape, gauze, and cold packs. It should be a staple in all households, workplaces, and cars.

• Bleeding control kits are designed to help control life-threatening bleeding caused by work injury, gunshot wounds, motor vehicle accidents, industrial accidents, or stabbing. Kits may contain the following – gauze, tourniquet, chest seal, trauma dressing, gloves, scissors, blanket, and more.

What’s kind of injuries can a First Aid kit help treat?

First Aid kits — should be well-equipped, compact, and contain everything you need to handle minor injuries - like scrapes, abrasions, and minor cuts. They can even help bystanders treat moderate, non-life-threatening injuries such as sprains, frostbites, burns, and deeper cuts. 

First aid kits generally contain antibacterial wipes, band-aids, aspirin, hydrocortisone ointment, antibacterial ointment, burn gel, surgical tape, gauze, and cold packs. Anyone and we think that everyone — teachers, parents, office managers, recreation leaders, coaches, babysitters, friends, neighbors — should be first aid certified and they should all have quick access to a first aid kit!

While incredibly useful, first aid kits are not designed to stop life-threatening bleeding.

What’s kind of injuries can a Bleeding Control kit help treat?

Bleeding Control kits — also referred to as trauma kits or Stop the Bleed® kits. These are specialized trauma kits designed to provide professional first responders or bystanders with the products they need to stop life-threatening bleeding. 

Bleeding control kits can help control excessive bleeding caused by gunshot wounds, stabbing, or crushing. These specialized kits are specifically designed to stop heavy bleeding and hemorrhaging and cannot treat burns, frostbite, or minor cuts and abrasions.

Types of First Aid kits: Class A Class B; plus Type I, II, III, and IV

Types of Bleed kits: Basic, Intermediate and Advanced

FAO Video below: Bleeding Control Tools Explained

SHOP: Live-saving Rescue Product Options