Stop Bleeding
If you find yourself in a situation where you or someone else is bleeding, the first
step is don’t panic! Next, follow these simple steps:
1. Find yourself a clean cloth (or as clean as possible) and press it tightly against
the wound. If you have nothing around you, try using your T-shirt. You can always
buy another. The idea is to apply pressure to stop the bleeding. If it is a leg
injury try to tie the cloth around the affected area. It will hurt but it will help slow
down the bleeding
2. Elevate the affected area if possible. The idea is that you want to be able to elevate
above the heart while still applying pressure to help keep blood flowing.
3. Wait for help to arrive. Blood loss can cause a person to be delirious so if possible
try to keep them awake and conscious with happy thoughts until help arrives.
Drowning
Water can be a scary adventure especially when someone is drowning. I remember
being a kid and drowning in a pool when there was no lifeguard. Let’s just say it
wasn’t a pleasant experience BUT thankfully someone did these simple steps and
that saved my life!
1. Reach. If the person is not far from the water’s edge, try to lay on your
stomach and reach out to them. You may need to use a long stick or pole
to give you a few extra feet.
2. Throw. If the person is too far out of reach, throw in a safety ring, or rope.
In an ideal situation using a boat or floating craft would also be ideal but
be sure to be safe and not get yourself into a terrible situation as well.
3. Go. Swimming out should be your last resort unless you are a trained professional
or know you are a good enough swimmer. Beware of rip currents
and bring something to help tow the person back to shore!
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