30 Basic First Aid Tips That Can Save A Life During Emergencies

Skip the Grey's Anatomy rewatch and read these first-aid basics!

Chelsi

• Published in Interesting
• April 8, 2024

First aid isn't just some boring subject they teach you in school for no reason. Nope, it means the difference between life and death during emergencies.

Knowing the basics can alter your response time and the clarity of your thoughts during these high-pressure situations. You can save your and other people's lives if you don't let panic set in.

That's where your first-aid knowledge kicks in! It's all about knowing the right moves to help someone in trouble until the medical professionals arrive.

Emergencies can happen anywhere and it's best to always be prepared. Whether out hiking, chilling at a backyard BBQ, or hanging out at home, having some basic first aid skills can seriously save the day.

But it's not about being a hero in emergencies. Learning first aid is like adding a powerful tool to your toolbox. It boosts your confidence and gives you the peace of mind that you can handle unexpected situations like a boss.

Plus, it's a game-changer for building stronger communities – because when we look out for each other amazing things can happen! So, whether you're an adrenaline junkie, a weekend warrior, or just someone who wants to be prepared for whatever life throws your way, don't sleep on the importance of first aid.

1. Avoid the bystander effect by directing a specific person to contact emergency services.

2. Binge-watching a syndicated medical drama does not make you a medical professional. Do not do tracheostomy haphazardly!

3. Learn CPR

Learn the different kinds of CPR for people of varying age groups.

4. Ensure that the person is not allergic to aspirin before doing this.

5. Learn how the proper handling of a fire extinguisher.

6. Familiarize yourself with the signs of low blood sugar.

7. Another thing to know about CPRs.

8. Pay attention to your surroundings, especially when you're in an unfamiliar place.

9. Carry Narcan. They are given out for free in some places.

Expect the other person to react wildly and dodge!

10. Look into purchasing a LifeVac anti-choking device.

11. Pay attention to your gut and instincts.

12. We live in a world where mass shootings happen, so it's best to remember this.

13. Properly placed tourniquets save lives.

14. Yell "Fire!" instead of "Help!"

15. Always bring honey when you go for hikes.

16. Learn how to use AEDs or Automated external defibrillators.

17. Place people in the recovery position to prevent them from choking on their saliva or vomit.

18. Take the person to the hospital immediately after administering the EpiPen.

19. Do not take concussions lightly.

20. Recognize the signs of stroke. They are different for men and women.

21. Change your voicemail to your last recognizable location if your phone is dying while you're lost in the wilderness. Also, look into the What 3 Words app.

22. Honey can be used as first aid for someone who ingested a battery every 10 minutes up to 6 times while waiting to get to the hospital.

23. Leave the tampon to stop the bleed from a bullet wound myth in the past. Go to a hospital!

24. Do not move someone suspected of a spinal injury.

25. Memorize the signs of a crowd crush.

26. Epilepsy first aid!

It's also advisable to place a cushion or something soft below their head.

27. Do not remove the object the person was impaled by. Stabilize it and call emergency services.

28. Do this even when you're meeting someone for a date.

29. If a person suffering from depression suddenly "snaps out" of it, check on them.

30. Most importantly, take a first aid class if possible. Some fire departments and non-profit organizations conduct them for free.

Bonus Tips:

Do not jump into unfamiliar waters!

You can't predict how you will react in an emergency until it happens. The best and first thing to do is to remain alert and calm.

Assess the situation and make sure the area is safe before stepping in to help those in need. May we never be in situations where these tips are necessary.

Chelsi