First Aid: Be Ready When It Matters Most

First aid isn’t just about medical kits — it’s about staying calm, thinking clearly, and acting fast. Whether it’s a burn, bleeding, or a sudden fainting spell, the right action in those first few minutes can make a world of difference.

Here’s a simple guide to help you respond confidently when emergencies strike.

💧 1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

Before rushing to help, look around for safety — make sure you and the injured person are out of danger.
Call for help if needed (in the UAE, dial 999 for emergencies).
Then, quickly check the person’s breathing, pulse, and level of consciousness.

🩹 2. For Cuts and Bleeding

• Wash your hands before touching the wound.

• Apply gentle pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding.

• Clean the area with mild water (no alcohol or hydrogen peroxide).

• Cover with a sterile bandage.
  If the bleeding doesn’t stop or is heavy, apply continuous pressure and seek medical help immediately.

🔥 3. For Burns

• Cool the burn under running cool (not cold) water for 10–15 minutes.

• Do not use ice, toothpaste, or butter — they can worsen damage.

• Cover the area loosely with a sterile, non-stick dressing.

• For severe or blistering burns, head to the nearest clinic or hospital.

💨 4. For Fainting or Dizziness

• Help the person lie down and raise their legs slightly to improve blood flow.

• Loosen any tight clothing.

• Ensure fresh air or move them to a cooler place.

• If they don’t regain consciousness in 1–2 minutes, seek medical assistance.

❤️ 5. For Choking

If the person is coughing forcefully — let them continue.
If they can’t speak, breathe, or cough:

1. Stand behind them and wrap your arms around their waist.

2. Make a fist, place it above their navel, and perform quick, upward thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver).

3. Repeat until the object is expelled or medical help arrives.

⚡ 6. For Electric Shock

• Do not touch the person until the power source is turned off.

• Once safe, check breathing and pulse.

• If unconscious or not breathing, begin CPR if trained.

• Seek emergency medical care immediately, even if they seem fine.

💊 7. First Aid Kit Essentials

Every home, office, and car should have a basic first aid kit. Include:

• Adhesive bandages and sterile gauze

• Antiseptic wipes or cream

• Tweezers and scissors

• Pain relievers (paracetamol/ibuprofen)

• Burn ointment and instant cold pack

• Disposable gloves and a small flashlight