Volume 2, Issue 1 | Page 16

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! 16