First Aid: What do I do?

Basic first aid skills everyone should know include: performing CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), controlling bleeding with direct pressure, managing shock by laying the person down and elevating their legs, treating burns, performing the Heimlich maneuver for choking, and knowing how to properly splint a broken bone; always prioritize assessing the situation for safety before providing any first aid. 

Key points to remember:

• Check for danger:

  Before approaching an injured person, ensure the scene is safe for yourself and others. 

• Call for help:

  Immediately call emergency services if the situation is serious. 

• Assess the situation:

  Determine the nature of the injury and the person's level of consciousness. 

• Airway management:

  If someone is unconscious, check their airway by tilting their head back and lifting their chin. 

• Bleeding control:

  Apply direct pressure to the wound using a clean cloth to stop bleeding. 

• Shock management:

  Lay the person flat, elevate their legs if no spinal injury is suspected, and keep them warm with a blanket. 

• CPR:

  If someone is not breathing, perform chest compressions and rescue breaths according to proper technique. 

• Heimlich maneuver:

  If someone is choking, perform the Heimlich maneuver to dislodge the obstruction. 

• Splinting:

  Immobilize a suspected broken bone with a splint to prevent further damage.