GUIDE TO FIRST AID

Protecting yourself and your family in an emergency means
being alert and prepared at all times. It means thinking clearly and not panicking. It also means reading this emergency
guide before you need it.

 

This chapter tells you how to provide first-aid care. Read it carefully, but don't be too concerned about memorizing the information. You'll be surprised how much of it will come back to you in an emergency. Review the information with your children, as well. You don't need to go through it page by page with them, but they should know basic first aid measures. Even three-year-olds can dial an emergency number or learn how to control bleeding. The entries in this chapter are generally directed toward someone who is alone with the victim. If you're advised to call for medical help, have someone else do this, if anyone is available; you can then start treatment more quickly. If possible, at least one adult in your family should take a course in first aid at a qualified training center, such as one run by the Red Cross.

GENERAL RULES

When dealing with a medical emergency, follow these basic guidelines:

• Try to remain calm so that you can properly assess the situation and treat the victim.
• Call for emergency help or ask someone else to do so.

Know the order of priorities when caring for an unconscious person:

• Check to breathe and apply artificial respiration.
• Check pulse and administer CPR.
• Stop any severe bleeding.
• Treat any burns and fractures.

If there is any possibility of a head, neck, or back injury do not move the person unless he or she is in danger for example, from oncoming traffic.

Check to see if an injured person is wearing medical identify cation-a bracelet, pendant, or card-that will tell you of any allergies or chronic conditions.

Loosen any tight clothing, and cover the person to guard against shock.

Treat for shock, if necessary.

Know the shortest route from your home to your local hospital before an emergency occurs. When taking someone ln, call ahead if time permits. lt will help the staff to know in advance the victim's problem, as well as the name and telephone number of his or her doctor.