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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye

Tackling emergencies first aid

Undentanding the basic techniques of first aid will help you to stay calm and in control in an emergency. This is vital in a crisis, regardless of the level of your specific knowledge. It is also enormously reassuring to the casualty, whatever the eventual outcome, and wll often inspire bystanders to offer assistance. Remember, even those with no training can do something really useful, such as phoning for help or comforting the casualty.

When you should do nothing

It is often better to do nothing than to risk doing the wrong thing. In one example, a man dealt with an elderly lady who had collapsed in the street by kneeling beside her and gathering her up so that he was cradling her slumped against his chest. In this position, her head lolled forwards, making her breathing tortuous. He meant fell, but he was actually compromising her breathing - and her chances of survival. Also, know your limitations. Do not try clambering up a cliff to help someone if you are scaled of Heights, or attempt a first-aid procedure if you have no idea what you are doing.

Be prepared

Another important part of being a potential first-aider, especially when belying people in your circle of family and friends, is thinking through in advance what would need to be done in an emergency. This means, for example, that if a crisis does arise, you don't end up having to take four children and the family dog to the accident and emergency department. Keeping the following two lists by the phone will help if sudden emergencies alise:

A list of the telephone numbers of nearby . friends and relatives plus your doctor and the emergency services.

A list of all medication taken by any members of your household. Also make sure that you have a record of any intolerances or allergies - thus might be invaluable to a doctor or paramedic.

Sensible precautions

Whenever you or those around you are ill, always observe a few simple rules. Follow any dosage or other instructions Closely and read any accompanying leaflets; they are there for a reason. Don't merrily mix medicines - seek expert advice and always ask a professional if you are worried about anything. Lastly, try to strike a balance between being terrified of every headache and staying well-informed about health the latter is certainly a much better recipe for long-lasting well-being.