What should you keep in a First Aid kit?

As an EMT I find store bought First Aid kits to be inadequate. I don't carry a jump kit or anything with me but I prefer to make my own first aid kits.

If you are going to provide aid to someone, then you need to have the stuff to help you. The first and most important thing to do though is to call 911 and get us coming to you.

The first thing you want to include in a first aid kit is items to protect you. Include several pairs of Nitrle or Latex gloves and at least 1 CPR shield. Bloodborne diseases are a very real danger and need to be taken seriously. It is not macho to have blood on you. Also make sure to include some form of sanitizing agent to clean up with. I prefer Vionex wipes myself because I trust them. However Purell or similar would work as well. I prefer wipes over gel because the scrubbing action of the wipe is more effective at cleaning.

The most common thing a general person will assist with is bleeding control. You need to make sure that you have items in your kit that can control bleeding. Ditch the bandaids, they are worthless. I have 3M steri-strips for minor wounds. Buy some 4x4 sponges (if not sterile, keep them in a zip lock bag to keep them dry and clean). At least 2 rolls of rolled guaze 4" wide. Rolled guaze will allow you maintain pressure over a wound. You will need a couple of trauma dressings and a roll of First aid tape (at least 1" wide).

Everything listed above can be used by anyone. I would recommend taking a first aid class so you can learn how to use the items as well as learn the legal requirements of providing first aid. You don't need any fancy kits or anything. Walmart is a good source to buy stuff.