Even if you are not trained in first aid, you can assist injured individuals by:
- Immediately calling the emergency services at 999 or 112.
- Keeping them warm and ensuring they are comfortable.
- Speaking to them in a reassuring manner to help keep them calm.
- Avoiding leaving them alone, providing companionship and support until professional help arrives.
Do not attempt to move injured individuals unless the area is safe. Only relocate them if they are in imminent danger, and do so with extreme caution. If a motorcyclist is involved, refrain from removing their helmet unless absolutely necessary to preserve their life, as helmet removal could exacerbate injuries. Always seek medical assistance promptly.
Avoid offering casualties any food, drink, or cigarettes to calm them down, as this could potentially worsen their condition.
If the casualty is unconscious, ensure they can breathe normally. If breathing is observed, carefully place them in the recovery position until medical help arrives. Continuously monitor their condition and ensure their airway remains unobstructed.
If you need to provide emergency care, remember the DR ABC code:
Danger: First, ensure it’s safe to approach the casualty.
Response: Attempt to elicit a response by gently shaking the casualty’s shoulders and asking loudly, “Are you all right?” If they respond, proceed to check for injuries.
Airway: If there’s no response, open the casualty’s airway by placing your fingers under their chin and lifting it forward.
Breathing: Verify that the casualty is breathing normally. Look for chest movements, listen and feel for breathing. If there are no signs of breathing, commence CPR immediately. For adults, interlock your fingers, place them in the center of the chest, and perform compressions at a rate of around 100-120 per minute, pressing down about 5-6 centimeters and about twice a second. For children and infants, adjust the technique accordingly.
Circulation: If the casualty is responsive and breathing, check for signs of bleeding. Protect yourself from exposure to blood and assess the wound. Do not remove any object embedded in the wound. Apply firm pressure over the wound to control bleeding and secure it with a bandage or cloth. If necessary, build up padding around the object without pressing on it.
If individuals at the scene are experiencing shock, which may manifest through rapid pulse, sweating, and pale skin, follow these steps:
- Reassure them confidently to help alleviate anxiety.
- Keep them warm to prevent further discomfort.
- Ensure they are as comfortable as possible.
- Minimize movement unless absolutely necessary.
- Do not leave them alone.
In the case of burns:
- Thoroughly douse the affected area with cool water for at least 20 minutes to alleviate pain and prevent further damage.
- Refrain from removing anything adhered to the burn, as this may worsen the injury.
Consider seeking first aid training from a certified training organization to enhance your ability to respond effectively in emergency situations.