Basic First Aid Tips

Heat Stroke:
Heat stroke can be life threatening. Symptoms can include a body temperature of 105°F or higher; dry, hot, flushed skin; rapid pulse; unconsciousness; and lack of perspiration.

• Get the victim out of the heat and into a cooler place.
• Place the victim in the shock position, lying on the back with feet up.
• Remove or loosen the victim's clothing.
• Cool the victim by fanning and applying cloth-wrapped cold packs or wet towels.
• Treat for shock.

Shock:
Shock can be life threatening. Symptoms include cold sweat, weakness, irregular breathing, chills, pale or bluish lips and fingernails, rapid weak pulse and nausea.

• Call 9-1-1 or seek medical help immediately.
• Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink.
• Lay the victim on his/her back, but do not move him/her if there's a back or neck injury. If the victim is unconscious, vomiting or has severe injury to the lower face or jaw, lay him/her on his/her side and be sure the victim is getting adequate air.
• Keep the victim warm (not hot) by use of blankets or clothes.
• Raise the victim's feet and legs with a pillow. (Only do this if it does not cause the victim any pain.)

Bleeding and Wounds:

• Place a clean cloth or gauze and gloved hand over the wound; apply firm, steady pressure for at least 5 minutes.
• Call 9-1-1 or other emergency personnel if bleeding is severe.
• Elevate an injured arm or leg above the level of the victim's heart if practical.
• When bleeding stops, secure the cloth with a bandage. Do Not lift the cloth from the wound to check if the bleeding has stopped. Be sure the bandage isn’t too tight cutting off circulation.
• Check the victim for shock.
• Never use a tourniquet unless you cannot control the bleeding. Tourniquets may result in subsequent medical amputation.

Heat or Electrical Burns:

• If necessary, use water to stop actual burning of skin.
• If the skin is not broken, immerse the burned area in cool (not ice) water, or gently apply a cool compress until pain is relieved. Bandage with a clean, dry cloth.
• Do not break a blister if one forms. Do not apply ointments or creams.
• If skin is broken, or if burns are severe:
  • Call 9-1-1 or other emergency personnel.
  • Do not clean the wound or remove embedded clothing.
  • Cover the burn loosely with a clean, dry cloth.
  • Expect shock and treat accordingly.