First Aid Basics

What are First Aid Basics?

First aid basics are essential skills that enable you to provide immediate care during an injury or illness. These skills can save lives and reduce injury severity while awaiting professional help.

Key Components

1. Assessing the Situation

• Ensure the scene is safe before approaching
• Check for responsiveness and call for help if needed

2. Basic First Aid Techniques

• Stop bleeding with direct pressure
• Treat burns with cool water (not ice)

3. CPR and AED Use

• Know the steps for hands-only CPR
• Locate and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if available

Building Your Safety Mindset

1. Stay Prepared

   • Take a first aid and CPR certification course
   • Know the location of first aid kits and AEDs

2. Remain Calm

   • Practice staying composed in stressful situations
   • Focus on clear, step-by-step actions

3. Encourage Training

   • Advocate for regular first aid training at work
   • Share your knowledge with colleagues

Discussion Points

1. How comfortable are you with providing first aid in an emergency?
2. What first aid skills do you feel you need to improve?
3. Share a time when first aid made a difference—what was the outcome?

Action Steps

• Locate the nearest first aid kit and AED in your area
• Review basic first aid steps for common injuries
• Sign up for a first aid or CPR course
• Discuss first aid readiness with your team