First Aid

First Aid is the assistance given to any person suffering a sudden illness or injury, with care provided to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, and promote recovery.

First Aid is important as it can save lives by preventing conditions from worsening, reducing pain and suffering, and providing immediate care until professional medical help arrives.

The basic components of First Aid include assessing the situation, contacting emergency services if needed, providing CPR if necessary, controlling bleeding, treating shock, and applying bandages or splints.

First Aid training is available through organizations such as the Red Cross, St. John Ambulance, and various community centers. Courses range from basic to advanced levels.

In case of a burn injury, the affected area should be cooled with running water, the burn covered with a clean cloth or dressing, and medical help sought if the burn is severe.

If someone is choking and unable to breathe or speak, the Heimlich maneuver can be performed by standing behind the person, wrapping arms around them, and applying upward pressure below the ribcage.

A basic First Aid kit should contain items such as bandages, adhesive tape, antiseptic wipes, scissors, tweezers, gloves, CPR mask, and emergency contact information.

The universal sign for choking is hands clutched to the throat. If someone is displaying this sign and having difficulty breathing or coughing, they may be choking.

During a seizure, it is important to keep the person safe by moving surrounding objects away and cushioning their head. Do not hold them down or put anything in their mouth.

If encountering an unconscious person, check for responsiveness by tapping their shoulder and asking loudly if they are okay. If there is no response, call emergency services and begin CPR if trained.