Like any other discipline, first aid must be learned with time and dedication. However, today we want to provide you with 5 Essential Rules that, far from being definitive and complete, may be very helpful to help a person in need.

1. First Tip: If someone has swallowed something corrosive, do not make them sick. Get them to take small sips of milk or water.
2. Second Tip: If someone has a head injury, it is okay for them to go to sleep. Just check on them regularly for abnormal breathing, passive vomiting, fluid/blood in their ears etc.
3. Third Tip: Do not try and squeeze a sting out of the skin; this will burst the poison sack. Instead, use a credit card to scrape the sting away.
4. Fourth Tip: If someone has a nosebleed, lean them forwards so the blood doesn’t run down their throat.
5. Fifth Tip: If someone is having an asthma attack, don’t take them outside for fresh air. Cold air can make it even harder to breathe.

We strongly recommend that you attend a practical first aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency. Please visit www.firstaidforlife.org.uk or call 0208 675 4036 for more information about our courses. First Aid for Life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information.

Author: Emma Hammett