In certain work environments - and sometimes at home - it is necessary to have first aid equipment that goes beyond the simple gauze, Bandaids, and antibiotic cream kept in most elementary first aid kits. In some situations, comprehensive first aid equipment is essential to maintaining a safe and prepared environment. Having this first aid equipment - and knowing how to operate it properly - can be mean the difference between life and death.

One such piece of first aid equipment that has garnered quite a bit of press recently is the portable automated external defibrillator. When someone's heart stops beating, the external defibrillator transmits electric waves through paddles in order to restart the normal rhythms of the heart. This is a serious piece of first aid equipment and should only be used by someone who is well trained in doing so.

However, because of the effectiveness of the external defibrillator, it is now being installed on airplanes, in schools, and even in offices. Specific people in these environments are being trained on how to use this piece of first aid equipment in the hopes that it can save a life in an otherwise perilous situation.

Another important component of first aid equipment is a litter - a small, easily collapsible canvas canvas stretcher of sorts. It is used to help remove a victim from a dangerous situation or to take someone closer to a place where rescue workers can reach them.

A tourniquet is another imperative piece of first aid equipment - used to temporarily stop the bleeding of severe injuries until emergency services can arrive.

Additionally, first aid equipment also includes protective gear for those administering the first aid. Goggles, a compact and disposable mouth-to-mouth resuscitation device that allows for sterile administering of rescue breaths, and rubber gloves are all a part of first aid equipment.

The goal of first aid equipment in the work, school, or home environment is to assess life threatening injuries and stabilize victims until professional emergency medical assistance can arrive. But this first line of defense - when used correctly - can often save a victim's life.