First - aid kit

First - aid kit

In many countries, the law requires workplaces and schools be kept in a clean, marked container and be re-stocked regularity. Because there is a danger of misusing drugs, the contents of some kits are restricted to strike wound dressings.

At the scene
Effective first-aid, the temporary treatment of injury or illness while waiting for medical aid-relies on correctly assigninig priorities. At an accident, one of the first priority is to summon the emergency services.

Assessing conditions
Experienced first aiders know that noisy casualties are not necessarily the most hurt.At a multiple accident, they assess quickly the condition of all casualties, then concentrate avalible first aid on the most seriously injured. In hospitals, this assessment is known as triage.

Raising the alarm
A telephone call is usually the best way to get help. Special telephones are located in areas such as motorways but calls to the emergency services are free on all telephones. Shouting or waving flags are all alternative methods.

Further danger
First aiders should never place themselves or others in danger. Before treating the casualty, they should try to make the area safe. Fire, traffic, electicity and unsafe sructure are some of the hazards that may delay treatment.