On 9th September, it will be World First Aid Day 2017. This campaign was introduced in 2000 by The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.
It is most likely that if you have to perform first aid, it will be on someone that you know. It could be a family member, a friend, a work colleague or a young child that you know. First aid emergencies can range from bleeding, choking and CPR. Once acquired, first aid knowledge is something that you will take with you every day throughout your life, equipping you to remain calm and save someone’s life in an emergency.
This year the campaign is focussing on domestic accidents. These could include burns, slips and trips, cardiac arrest and many more. You do not require previous medical knowledge to learn basic first aid skills. Knowing how to handle emergencies around the house (and anywhere else!) is a vital life-skill.
How can you get involved?
– Invest in a good quality first aid kit. First aid kits are essential to every home and should hold various items such as, plasters, bandages, antiseptic cream, thermometer and painkillers. Having all medical items in one place during an emergency is incredibly helpful and will save time and reduce pressure, allowing you to act more efficiently.
– It is important (particularly if you have children in the home) to risk assess and maintain a generally safe environment to reduce the likelihood of preventable injuries. Read our blog about how to keep your home safe here: https://www.ajuda.org.uk/how-to-make-your-home-safer/
Learn
Book yourself onto a first aid course to learn first-hand how to handle medical emergencies. Basic first aid courses cover topics such as bleeding, CPR and the recovery position. To book yourself onto a first aid course with Ajuda or for more information about the courses we offer, please contact us on 029 2057 6883.
Email us on admin@ajuda.org.uk
Or check out our course calendar on ajuda.org.uk
– Research. The internet is full of useful resources such as video demonstrations and in depth information about first aid scenarios. Check out our video series showing you how to handle paediatric medical emergencies here: http://ow.ly/PbMi30eValx
