First Aid

Injuries occur when we least expect it. It's important to know how best to manage some of life's simpler misadventures before they happen. Here's some advice on how to handle injuries:

WOUNDS

A bruise is the most common closed wound. Bruises result from excess force to the skin that causes bleeding underneath the skin. Most bruises can be treated with a few simple stapes:

- Immediately following injury apply pressure to reduce bleeding.

- Keep the area elevated and apply ice or a cold pack to help reduce swelling and decrease pain. Always wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel or cloth and hold to the wound for 15 minutes once every hour for as long as the pain continues.

The most common open wounds are abrasions or scrapes. For simple cuts or scrapes treat as follows:

- Cleanse the area with soap and warm water, carefully washing away dirt.

- Apply pressure to the wound until bleeding stops

- Apply a dry sterile bandage to the wound for protection. Use antibiotic ointments only on infected wounds.

- Deep wounds require medical attention.

- Watch for infection - signs include: swelling, redness, warmth, pain or fever

BLISTERS

A blister is the body's way of protecting itself. It's a small pocket of fluid formed under the skin from repeated friction between the skin and an object, such as a hiking boot. Intact blisters are best left alone, protected with a clean non-sticking bandage. If the blister breaks, leave the skin flap in place to prevent infection. Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment and cover with a sterile, non-sticking bandage. Change the bandage regularly.

SAFETY TIPS

The most important tip is to supervise your children at all times, particularly around water. Take a first-aid training course so you are prepared to deal with choking, water-related and other emergencies.

- Set the temperature of your hot water tank to no higher than 49 Celcius (120 Fahrenheit). Children's skin is very sensitive and can burn in seconds; lower temperatures reduce this risk.

- Never hold a child while eating or drinking anything hot.

- Keep beds and cribs away from windows to prevent falls and accidental blind/drape cord strangulation.

- Ensure heavy furniture (such as a chest of drawers or bookcase) is secured to the wall to prevent it from falling.

- Install safety gates properly to prevent children from falling down stairs. Pressure gates at the top of stairs can be knocked over if leaned on. Instead, in these areas anchor gates to the wall or banister.

BUILD YOUR OWN FIRST AID KIT

Keep first aid kits handy in locations where you spend a lot of time: at home, work, the cottage and the car. Plastic or metal containers are good since they are resistant to crushing. Your kit should include:

Always plan for safety. Prevent accidents where possible, but be prepared by having first aid supplies close at hand.