Free expiration checklist

Dump it out

• Dump it all out. Everything. You can't check what you can't see.

What gets old

• The sticky part on bandages and tape dries out over time. Then it won't stick when you need it.
• If a bandage peels off its own wrapper, it's done.
• Gauze and pads come sealed so they stay clean. If a wrapper is torn, open, or wet, toss it.
• A torn seal means it's not clean anymore.
• Cleaning wipes dry out. Squeeze the pack. If it feels dry, replace it.
• Ointments and creams have dates too. Look on the tube.
• The kind you squeeze to make cold can stop working when they get old. Check for leaks or a date.

Medicines

• If you keep medicine in your kit, look at the date on every box.
• Look at the packaging too. Is it cracked? Wet? Has it sat in a hot car?
• I'm not going to tell you what's safe to take, or how much. If you have questions about an old medicine, ask your pharmacist.

Recalls

Sometimes a product gets recalled. That means the company or the FDA found a problem with it. You don't have to check recalls every week.

• When you do your kit check, take a minute and search the names of the big items in your kit.
• This fall, the FDA posted a recall for the Safeguard Battle Bandage. It's a compression bandage. The FDA notice says the bandage may be degraded.
• If you own one, look up your product and lot number on the FDA recall page.

Restock and date it

• Make a short list of what you tossed. Buy new ones. Put them back where they go.
• Put a piece of tape on the outside of the bag. Write today's date on it.
• I like twice a year. When the clocks change in the spring and fall, check your kit.
• If someone is badly hurt, don't dig through a kit first. Call 911.