How To Baby Proof Your Home

When you first bring your baby home from the hospital, there’s not a lot he or she will be able to get into — that’s because, babies are still too small to crawl or pull objects down. However, in only a few short months, he or she can be reaching, climbing and/or knocking over all sorts of everyday items. That’s why now is a great time to think about baby proofing your home. Even before you bring your precious little one home for the first time, it’s never too early to start covering electrical sockets and fastening cabinets. With that in mind, here’s a checklist of steps to guard all the major parts of your home:

• Cover Electrical Outlets: Buy safety plugs for all unused electrical outlets to protect curious fingers from poking inside.

• Hide Electrical Cords: Keep easy-to-grab electrical cords out of reach by hiding them behind furniture or using devices that tuck away loose cords.

• Install Doorstops: As your child gets increasingly mobile, it will be easy to push doors and accidentally get caught in a latch. Protect babies’ fingers by adding doorstops and door holders to doors throughout your home.

• Install Baby Gates: Anywhere you have staircases that your child can access, you’ll need a baby gate to block him or her from falling. Block stairways at the tops and bottoms so that your little one isn’t able to accidentally take a tumble.

• Block Openings on Railings: If there are any openings on staircase railings that are wider than 4 inches in size, use materials like Plexiglas or garden fencing to block them. Even though 5 inches may seem small, it can be large enough for a baby to reach through and/or get stuck, so you need to be proactive about preventing accidents.

• Put an Appliance Latch on the Oven and Fridge: Protect your baby from accidental oven burns by securing the door of your oven with an appliance latch — this keeps him or her from being able to open the oven and reach inside when it’s cooking. Likewise, install an appliance latch on the refrigerator door to prevent unauthorized access or injury.

• Store Dangerous Items Out of Reach: From kitchen knives to breakable knick-knacks, store any and all potentially dangerous items high and out of reach of your baby.

• Secure All Low Cabinets: Any doors or drawers low enough for a crawling baby to reach should be secured to prevent access. This goes for kitchen and bathroom cabinets, as well as any other low areas that could be easy to open.

• Tuck Away Trash: Keep trash cans in protected cupboards or choose models that have child-resistant covers in order to keep your baby from getting into something he or she shouldn’t.

The bottom line with baby proofing is to try and think like a crawling infant and then get rid of all the opportunities for harm. In addition to the checklist above, try getting on your hands and knees and moving through your living areas the way your child might: What could you grab? What could easily fall on you? Are there better places to move lamps or heavy items? Identify any possible dangers and take steps to remedy them before they can cause harm to your child!

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The Signs and Symptoms of a Heart Attack

Heart Attack – Signs & Symptoms

 Early recognition of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack can be the most critical step in saving your own life, or the life of a loved one. If an artery leading to the heart becomes blocked, the affected tissues of the heart will begin to die almost immediately. This is called a heart attack. A heart attack does NOT mean that the heart has stopped. Rather, it is a warning; indicating that the heart may stop at any moment. Do not perform CPR on an individual who is still breathing, instead, identify the problem, call 911 immediately, and monitor the victim. The signs and symptoms of a heart attack may include:

1. A crushing pain, pressure or squeezing sensation in the center of the chest lasting 2 minutes or longer. This pain may begin to radiate up toward the neck, back or out toward the left arm.
2. Tightness of the chest. Patients may describe the sensation as if someone were sitting on their chest, causing breathing difficulty. This may intensify with activity. Any chest pain or breathing difficulty should be immediately reported to 911.
3. Other signs may include pale/ashen, cool, and moist skin. This is not the hot sweat you might get from exercise, but more like the cold sweat you get from doing your taxes. The victim may also experience nausea and/or dizziness.
4. Denial is another very common response to this kind of emergency. Do not allow yourself to be dissuaded. Heart attack victims often claim that their pains are due to indigestion, heartburn, asthma, or illness. The longer that you argue with the victim over the validity of their claims, the less time they may have to live. Go to the another room if necessary and call 911 before the heart stops.

 As the heart tissue continues to die, a critical mass may be reached and the heart will stop beating. This is called Cardiac Arrest. If CPR is not initiated immediately, the victim will be brain dead in 4 to 6 minutes. If the EMS is notified early, Cardiac Arrest may be avoided and greatly increase the patient’s chances of survival. Remember, the best chance of surviving a heart attack occurs when signs and symptoms are recognized early. Be ready for such an emergency and do not hesitate to call 911 for assistance.

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3 key safety measures for the prevention of vehicle fires

A lack of basic car maintenance is one of the biggest sources of vehicle fires. A car that is not regularly serviced by a mechanic who has been professionally trained is far more susceptible to the risk of a fire, as is a car that has not had its MOT carried out by a reputable garage.

Leaks of oil, petrol and other inflammable fluids should be dealt with immediately to avoid the potential of a fire related accident. A good way to check for vehicle leaks is to look underneath the car to see if the ground appears wet, discolored or stained. If you do find a leak, take the car to a garage as soon as possible so that the car can be made safe. Older cars are far more likely to have issues related to wiring or electrical problems and fuses that blow more than once can indicate a more serious underlying problem that should be addressed immediately. Rapid changes in engine temperature can also result in problems.

During the summer months, the threat of a vehicle fire is significantly increased. It goes without saying that throwing a lit cigarette out of the window on dry grass or close to litter is not only a risk to the vehicle, but to the surrounding area and also any wildlife. Fires can spread very quickly at this time of year and rapidly become out of hand when the grass is dry. Litter can be highly flammable, particularly aerosols and many other materials particularly plastics are a source of toxic fumes.

• Have your vehicle serviced regularly
• Check regularly under the car for any signs of leaks
• Park safely and away from flammable materials, or other substances that could set fire rapidly such as long grass and litter, especially during summer months.

Although picnic trips in the summer are one of life’s greatest pleasures you need to take special precautions to ensure that you do not park your car on long dry grass. If grass is allowed to touch the catalytic converter for example, this poses a significant risk. Any heat source that connects with dry grass has the potential to cause a fire.

Having a fire extinguisher on hand is a very sensible measure and means that small incidents can be safely dealt with before they become bigger problems. However it is important to have the right type of fire extinguisher to deal with the problem. For example trying to put out an electrical fire with a water extinguisher can lead to electrocution.

A good all round fire extinguisher to have on hand is a powder based extinguisher. These are suitable for Class A fires (wood, textiles and paper), Class B fires (petrol, oil, paint and tar) and Class C fires (flammable gasses). Choose an extinguisher that is BS EN3 standard. A 1kg powder extinguisher comes is a compact size which can be easily stored in a car boot, some even come with mounting brackets so they can be affixed to the wall of a garage.

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 Now this is really CPR 101!

Longest save on record! 101 minutes of CPR revived the victim!

It is a common part of learning CPR to be taught that immersion in cold water can extend the period of Clinical Death beyond the normal 4-6 minutes prior to irreversible brain death, but this one is amazing!

Clinical Death/ Biological Death
Allow me to take a moment to explain what happens when an individual’s breathing and heartbeat stop. The first stage is called Clinical Death. Clinical death is not necessarily permanent. An individual’s brain can stay alive for about 4-6 minutes after breathing and heartbeat have stopped. This isn’t much time, but it is our “Window of Survival.” If appropriate medical care is initiated within the first minutes of cardiac arrest, the individual has a much greater chance of survival. Many individuals have survived because of early entry into the Emergency Medical System (EMS), and prompt bystander CPR and Defibrillation. If more than 4-6 minutes elapse, however, the individual will most likely experience permanent and irreversible brain damage or Biological Death.

One hour and 41 minutes of CPR later, a Mifflinburg toddler regained his pulse and heart rate after being submerged in icy water at least 20 minutes — and may well be a medical miracle, said a Geisinger Medical Center physician, among about 50 people who had a hand in saving the 22-month-old child.

According to the The Daily Item, not only was the boy resuscitated, he’s also recovered neurologically, said Dr. Frank Maffei, director of pediatric intensive care at Janet Weis Children’s Hospital in Danville.
The child eventually wound up at Janet Weis for treatment via Mifflinburg EMS, Evangelical Community Hospital and Life Flight medical helicopter after he was pulled from a swift-moving creek in West Buffalo Township.

The child was discharged Sunday after five days in the hospital, and physicians will continue to watch his health. “But at this time, he has a highly favorable recovery,” Maffei said.

The 50 people include the neighbor who pulled the boy from the creek to the responding medical professional chain who kept the CPR going, Maffei said. “It was teamwork like I had never seen and a privilege to be part of,” he said.

“As far as we can tell, there is no evidence of gross brain damage,” the doctor said of the boy. “He ambulates, speaks, remembers his (siblings.) He asked for apple juice and played with trucks.”

Plunge and recovery



The child’s story began last Wednesday about 6 p.m. along Emery Road in Mifflinburg. According to state police at Milton, the toddler disappeared while playing near a small creek with two older siblings.

He was found face down about a quarter-mile downstream, stopped by a large branch, Maffei said. It was here a neighbor, who Maffei identified as Randall Beachel, of Mifflinburg, got the child from the water. Beachel did not return a phone call for comment by deadline Monday.

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Triage

What is Triage?

~ Assessing and Assisting for More than One Victim ~

If you encounter an accident scene where there is more than one victim, you will need to prioritize your care to help the most number of people.

Try to assess the victims as quickly as possible by type…timing is critical so doing so within the first minute or so is the goal.

The first step is classifying the injured victims into four groups.

1. Critical Injuries (Immediate)– These are people with life threatening injuries that may be cared for successfully by your immediate care. ~ Examples may include respiratory arrest, airway obstruction, heart attack, severe bleeding, severe shock, severe burns, open chest wounds, abdominal wounds, unconscious/unresponsive victims & spinal injuries.
2. Serious Injuries (Delayed) – These are people who do not have life-threatening injuries and the victim appears to be in stable condition. Examples may include bone fractures, moderate bleeding, moderate burns or other illnesses which are not life threatening.
3. Walking Injured (Minor) – These people may be injured, but are able to move and walk on their own. They will probably appear to be stable and should be asked to move to a safe location to be treated later.
4. Fatal Injuries (Deceased) – These are people who are most likely biologically dead. Examples may include victims who have been decapitated or have severed trunks, have exposed brain matter, have burns over 90% of their bodies, or victims who have been in cardiac arrest for more than 20 minutes, but have not been exposed to cold weather or cold water drowning.

Do not move any victim unless they are in an area which is more life threatening than their injuries.

• Triage situations are extremely stressful and traumatic…
• Try to remain calm and do the best you can.
• If you follow these guidelines, you may be able to help several people.
• Remember to always activate EMS so help is on the way

Triage Supplies

 

Everything for START Triage (Simple Triage and Rapid Treatment) from Triage Tags and Triage Tarps to Triage Incident Command & Triage Units on Wheels, Triage Tape: Minor, Morgue, Delayed, Immediate.

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Bleeding Control

Soft Tissue Injuries / Bleeding Control

Some common types of soft tissue injuries and bleeding control, and their treatments:

Let’s begin with a simple contusion.  A contusion is another name for a bruise.  It is usually caused by blunt trauma; as in the case of a baseball bat striking an arm, or pressure; like a hickey or “love bite” on your neck.  The purple discoloration is caused by crushed blood vessels leaking blood into the surrounding tissues.  Often these areas will swell with other body fluids and cause lingering pain or discomfort.  If we begin by analyzing any potential life threatening situations, it would be safe to make a few initial assumptions: A person suffering only from a contusion will likely have:

1. Breathing,
2. Pulse
3. No severe bleeding.

Having eliminated some potential life threatening situations, we can proceed with the proper treatment, which is the careful application of ice.  An ice pack will constrict the injured blood vessels to help control bleeding, reduce swelling in the area, and eliminate some of the pain.  A special warning about ice: Never apply ice directly to the skin as prolonged contact may result in frostbite.



Other common soft tissue injuries & treatment:

• Nosebleed / Epistaxis
• Scrapes & Abrasions
• Cuts, Incisions and Lacerations
• Direct Pressure-Elevation-Pressure Points

A puncture wound occurs when a long, sharp object, like a nail, enters and exits the body, leaving a deep hole.  Of all the wounds listed so far, puncture wounds are the most likely to become seriously infected.  Infection occurs when bacteria from the nail are embedded deep into the body, and cleaning efforts are insufficient to remove them.  Puncture wounds often heal from the outside in, sealing off the open wound and creating an abscess, breeding bacteria in an anaerobic environment.  Gangrene and tetanus are two examples of this type of infection.  Both are extremely dangerous and can be prevented by early treatment by a physician.

An impalement occurs when an object becomes lodged in the tissue or bones of an individual.  An example might be a fishhook or a shaft of rebar from a construction site.  Consider the possibility of patient shock anytime an object is visibly embedded in the body.  Generally, treatment for impalement involves immobilization of the embedded object to prevent further damage, and treating the patient for shock.  An object that pierces through a section of the body may have damaged organs, muscles, or punctured major arteries.  Any motion of the object (including removal) may result in more damage, or massive internal bleeding.  Bulky dressings like rolls of bandage or a paper cup placed over the impaling object are recommended to reduce the likelihood of accidental motion while awaiting EMS.  (Remember to punch the hole in the cup before placing it over the object if this method is used)

An avulsion is the forcible removal of a section of soft tissue.  An example might be an earlobe or fingertip.  It is important to remember the life threatening situations we mentioned earlier in the presentation, as avulsions tend to have several priorities at once.  First, control the bleeding.  Second, treat for shock.  And third, locate and isolate the body part.  Be very careful not to come into contact with the blood.  Place the body part in a plastic bag, wrap in a towel, and keep it cool with ice.  Make sure the body part accompanies the victim to the hospital, as they will usually want it back.

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Prescription Drug Overdose Prevention

Last Friday, CDC released RFA-CE15-1501, Prescription Drug Overdose Prevention for States. This major new funding opportunity will provide state health departments with resources and support to advance comprehensive state-level interventions for preventing prescription drug overuse, misuse, abuse, and overdose.



CDC’s Injury Center intends to commit up to $55,600,000 total funding over the entire 4-year project period with a maximum of $1,000,000 per award per year. This funding will support approximately 16 states to implement prevention strategies to improve safe prescribing practices and turn the tide on the prescription drug overdose epidemic.

With this funding, states can pursue four priority strategies—two required and two optional.

Required strategies:

1. Enhance and maximize a state PDMP and
2. Implement community or insurer/health system interventions aimed at preventing prescription drug overdose and abuse

Optional strategies:

1. Conduct policy evaluations and/or
2. Develop and implement Rapid Response Projects.

A key to the success of this FOA is multi-sector collaboration with partners that have shared authority over this issue. Applicants are therefore required to submit letters of support from state-level governmental entities and other partners depending on the strategies they pursue. Awardees will also be expected to evaluate program activities using timely data from a variety of sources.

This funding announcement also presents opportunities to advance surveillance and evaluation efforts to understand and respond to the increase in heroin overdose deaths, especially at the intersection of prescription opioid abuse and heroin use. Funded states will track heroin morbidity and mortality as an outcome of their work and have opportunities to evaluate policies with implications for preventing both prescription drug and heroin overdoses (e.g., naloxone access policies).

Important Dates

• Applications due: May 8, 2015
• Informational call: March 11, 2015

Learn More

• The funding opportunity announcement can be found at http://www.grants.gov. Note that amendments to the announcement focus and application dates are possible. Please check for updates on www.grants.gov.

Learn more about CDC’s work to prevent prescription drug overdose deaths.

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Direct Pressure, Elevation, and Pressure Points

To apply direct pressure, place a sterile dressing directly on the wound and hold firmly in place.
Do not remove the dressing once applied.

If bleeding continues, add more dressings on top of the existing one, and elevate the wound above the level of the heart.

Elevation allows gravity to assist you in controlling the bleeding.  If direct pressure and elevation are not effective, it may be necessary to locate an appropriate pressure point.

A pressure point is a major artery leading to the injury site.  If pressure is applied on this artery, it will restrict blood pressure and blood flow to the affected area.  It may not stop all the bleeding, but when performed in conjunction with direct pressure and elevation, it is very effective in controlling bleeding.  Major pressure points in the body include the brachial artery (located along the humerus, between the underarm and the elbow, and between the bicep and the tricep), the radial artery (located on the underside of the wrists), and the femoral artery (located along the femur, between the hip and the groin).



Because these methods are usually quite effective, it is no longer recommended to apply a tourniquet.  Even when properly applied, a tourniquet may stop all necessary blood flow to a body part, and can result in the loss of the affected limb. The use of a tourniquet should be avoided except in extreme circumstances. Even proper application of a tourniquet will often result in the loss of the affected limb. Use a tourniquet only as a last resort to save the life of a bleeding victim, and only if all three other techniques have failed to control the bleeding.

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Incisions and lacerations

Incisions and lacerations are differentiated by their shape, and by their mechanism of injury.  Incisions are usually clean slices cause by sharp objects like a razor, a knife, or shard of glass.  Lacerations are irregular and jagged tears of the skin, caused by animal bites or motor vehicle accidents.  A superficial incision or laceration may require simple cleaning and the application of a sterile dressing.  If severe bleeding is present however, a different method must be used.   The combination of Direct Pressure, Elevation, and Pressure Points is very effective in controlling bleeding.  Remember to use proper personal protective equipment such as latex (or non-latex) gloves, goggles, or facemasks whenever you may come into contact with the blood or body fluid of another individual.

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Shock

What is “Shock”?

Shock is defined as inadequate tissue perfusion, which means that, during shock, the tissues of the body do not receive adequate oxygenation.  Shock is a potentially lethal condition that can be caused by a number of things.  Injuries involving blood loss, burns, significant pain, allergic reactions, or simply fear or neglect can trigger shock in an individual.  If left untreated, shock can progress to the point where the majority of the body’s blood is made unavailable to vital tissues and organs, causing a drop in body temperature, lowered level of consciousness, and ultimately organ failure and death.

Because shock is commonly associated with other types of injury, it is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of shock while you are treating a victim, before it becomes deadly.  The signs of shock are as follows: restlessness and anxiety, pale, cool, and clammy skin, rapid, weak pulse and breathing, pupil dilation, and finally confusion and unresponsiveness.  If you encounter an individual experiencing these signs and symptoms, immediately begin treatment by calming and reassuring the victim.  Lie the victim down in a position of comfort on the floor or other firm surface.  Maintain the victim’s body heat by applying a blanket.  And, if injuries permit, elevate the feet 8”–12” to help circulate blood to the more critical areas.  If the victim becomes unconscious, activate EMS and roll the person on their side to allow drainage of fluids from the mouth.

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American Red Cross Month

It is American Red Cross Month.

The White House has declared March to be American Red Cross Month (as it has every Month since the mid 1940’s!) This year, the proclamation singled out and recognized Clara Barton, the Red Cross founder, her achievements, and her legacy.

Think about First Aid, Emergency Preparedness, and Get your Ready Rating!



Read the proclamation:

AMERICAN RED CROSS MONTH, 2015

– – – – – – –

BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION

For more than 130 years, the devoted women and men of the American Red Cross have responded to challenges at home and abroad with compassion and generosity.  In times of conflict and great tragedy, they deliver humanitarian relief, save lives, and offer hope for a brighter tomorrow.  Their service has meant so much to so many, and it reflects a fundamental American truth:  we look out for one another and we do not leave anyone behind.  This month, we renew our sense of common purpose and honor all those whose sacrifices have made our society more prepared, resilient, and united.

As a nurse and educator, Clara Barton dedicated her life to caring for others and alleviating suffering.  After years of tending to soldiers and families in their hour of need, she established the American Red Cross, creating a force for peace and recovery in the wake of the Civil War and opening paths for millions across our Nation to serve their brothers and sisters. In the generations that followed, the American Red Cross and other service and relief organizations have combated pandemics, supported our Armed Forces, and provided disaster relief and mitigation worldwide.

In big cities and rural towns, American Red Cross volunteers support their communities, helping people donate blood, teaching first aid, and increasing local preparedness.  Last year, our Nation once again bore witness to their grit and resolve as thousands mobilized in response to devastating mudslides, tornadoes, wildfires, and other emergencies.  As selfless individuals step forward — as neighbors assist neighbors, schools transform into shelters, and donations become hot meals and dry clothes — they carry forward Barton’s legacy and safeguard the promise that in moments of darkness, there is hope.  They remind us that when we stand together, America emerges stronger.

Our Nation has always been shaped by ordinary Americans who dedicate their lives to achieving the extraordinary.  During American Red Cross Month, let us ask what we can do for those around us and resolve to make service to others a part of our everyday lives.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America and Honorary Chairman of the American Red Cross, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim March 2015 as American Red Cross Month.  I encourage all Americans to observe this month with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities, and by supporting the work of service and relief organizations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this twenty-seventh day of February, in the year of our Lord two thousand fifteen, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-ninth.

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Splints & Splinting

SPLINTS -There are three types of splints:

An anatomic splint uses the natural rigidity of the body to provide support for an injured area.  For example, an injured finger may be immobilized by taping it securely to another finger.

A soft splint, such as a pillow, towel, or sling can provide support if secured properly around an injured area.

A rigid splint will provide support by its natural rigidity.  Some examples of a rigid splint include magazines, cardboard, or a tree branch.

Remember that splinting is only necessary if you are required to move a victim before help arrives.  Take special care to immobilize the head and neck of anyone suspected of having a spinal injury.  Remember also, to splint in the position that you find the injury. Proper immobilization must include support above and below the point of injury.  In all cases involving splints:

1. Support the injury.
2. Check for feeling and color in extremities.
3. Apply and secure the splint.
4. Recheck the extremities to ensure that the splint has not restricted circulation.

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Musculoskeletal Injuries

Fractures & Dislocations
One type of fracture is known as a closed or simple fracture.  It is characterized by pain, swelling, contusion, and sometimes deformity.  Be sure to evaluate the extremities for loss of pulse, motion, or sensation.  Take care to thoroughly immobilize any injury of this type as any shifting of the broken bone ends may cause increased pain and significant damage.
An open or compound fracture occurs when a broken bone end protrudes from the skin, either at the time of the injury, or later through motion or mishandling.  This is a more serious injury due to the possibility of patient shock, infection, or additional internal damage.  Do not replace the bone end, or attempt to straighten the injury.

A dislocation is an injury to the capsule and ligaments of a joint that results in displacement of the bone end at the joint.  It is not an injury to the bone itself, but rather to the ligaments which connect the bones together.  If a dislocation is not immobilized immediately, it may allow the ligaments to tear or separate from the bone.  A torn or separated ligament will require surgery to repair and often takes several months to heal correctly.
Tendons and ligaments are, in a sense, the glue that holds the body together.  Composed of specialized connective tissue, tendons connect muscle to bone while ligaments connect bone to bone.  Tendons and ligaments, as well as muscles, can be bruised, crushed, cut, or torn, and are also included in the category of musculoskeletal injuries.

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Everyone Lives in a Flood Zone

Did you know that? It is true!
According to FloodSmart.gov, everyone everywhere is in a flood zone. In the last 5 years, all 50 states have experienced floods or flash floods.

What are flood zones?

Flood zones are land areas identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Each flood zone describes that land area in terms of its risk of flooding. Everyone lives in a flood zone–it’s just a question of whether you live in a low, moderate, or high risk area.

• Just a few inches of water from a flood can cause tens of thousands of dollars in damage.
• Flash floods often bring walls of water 10 to 20 feet high.
• A car can easily be carried away by just two feet of floodwater.
• Hurricanes, winter storms and snowmelt are common (but often overlooked) causes of flooding.
• New land development can increase flood risk, especially if the construction changes natural runoff paths.
• Read more about Floods

Disaster, Survival, Preparation

Survival Gear: Disaster, Emergency Preparedness, Camping & Survival Supply 72 Hour Emergency Preparedness Supplies for Earthquake, Hurricane, Tornado, Twister, Nuclear Disasters, Wilderness Survival & More… C.E.R.T. & F.E.M.A. Disaster, Survival, & Preparation! Think about preparedness; at home, at work, at school, even in your car.What should you do? Check your Emergency Plan and Evacuation Routes everywhere you normally spend time. Make sure you have an out of State contact for you, your friends and your family (long distance phone service is usually restored before local – and mobile services and internet will likely not work in a major disaster.) Of course, you should Check your Emergency Supplies, too: Count your stock… is it enough? Check your expiration dates (food, water, batteries) Keep cash on hand Don’t let your gas tank get below half-full Think-Plan-Prepare-Survive!

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Strains And Sprains

A strain is an injury to a muscle or a tendon, possibly by being overextended or stretched.  A sprain is an injury to a joint with possible damage to, or tearing of ligaments.

Musculoskeletal injuries are usually associated with external forces such as falls or vehicle collisions.  The force applied to the body may cause injuries to the surrounding soft tissues (e.g., nerves and arteries), and even to body areas distant from the injury site.

Muscle strains are often caused by the improper lifting of heavy objects.  The back and spine are very susceptible to injury, and even minor strains in these areas can be debilitating.  Other commonly strained areas include the quadriceps, hamstrings, groin, and calf muscles.

A sprain can be very severe because of the damage it may inflict on the  connective ligaments in the area of a joint.  The pain may be minor or severe, and damage may include stretching or even tearing of these ligaments.  In the case of a torn ligament, medical aid must be sought to reconnect the tissues or permanent disability may result. The signs and symptoms of sprains and strains can include pain and tenderness at the sight of injury, discoloration of the injured area due to ruptured blood vessels in the region, loss of use or coordination, numbness or paleness of extremities (parasthesia), and deformity.

Basic first aid for the treatment of sprains and strains involve the implementation of several steps that are often remembered using the acronym RICE.  R-I-C-E stands for REST, ICE, COMPRESSION, and ELEVATION.

REST = This should be obvious to anyone suffering a severe strain or sprain, but should be observed even by those simply suspecting injury. Rest simply means, “Don’t walk on a sprain.” Repeated use of the injured area may mask the pain, cause further injury, or increase the time needed to heal.

ICE = This is perhaps the most important aspect in dealing with an injury of this type.  Applying ice to the injured area is necessary to control internal bleeding, reduce pain and swelling, and to facilitate the body’s natural healing processes.  Many people prefer the use of heat for sprain and strain injuries. Understanding the physiological changes that take place with each may prevent this mistake from being made.  A sprain or strain often involves the tearing of connective tissues, muscles, and often blood vessels as well. The application of heat will relax the muscles and dilate the walls of the blood vessels in the area.  While a warm spa may sound more inviting than a bucket of ice water, the heat will increase bleeding and swelling in the damaged area, slowing the healing process.  Conversely, ice constricts the blood vessels, slowing the bleeding and reducing painful swelling of the tissues.

CAUTION: DO NOT APPLY ICE DIRECTLY TO SKIN. IT MAY CAUSE FROSTBITE. ALWAYS PLACE A FABRIC BARRIER BETWEEN THE ICE OR COLDPACK AND THE SKIN.

COMPRESSION = A pressure bandage may be applied to restrict blood flow and swelling of the area. Be cautious not to apply a pressure bandage too tightly.  Check distal pulse, movement, sensation, and capillary refill before and after applying a pressure bandage to ensure that the extremities are receiving sufficient circulation.

ELEVATION = Elevation of an injured body part above the level of the heart is another method of controlling blood flow and reducing swelling of the injured area. Do not elevate any area if you suspect it may cause further injury.

The first aid for fractures generally involves immobilization of the injured area, treating for shock, and activating the EMS.  Sometimes, however, it may be necessary to move a patient yourself.  If you must move a patient even a short distance, a splint must be applied to immobilize the injury and prevent further damage.

Instant & reusable Cold Compresses and Hot Packs such as Body Warmers and Hot Packs, Instant Cold Compresses and jack Frost Cold Packs, Reusable Hot and Cold Packs for Instant Treatment of Minor to Moderate Bumps and Bruises. Cold Therapy Supplies and Cold Packs for Sports Injuries.

Body Warmers & Hot Packs Heatworks and Heat Pax Hand, Pocket & Glove Air Activated Instant Charcoal Warmers, Reusable hot packs and warmers, Hot / Cold Packs and Body Warmer Packs including heated Slipper Socks and more. Instant Cold Compresses / Cold Packs Cold Packs and Cold Compresses from only 28¢ each! These Instant “Squeeze and Shake” Cold compresses are perfect for injuries and cold therapy. With our Manufacturer Direct Bulk and Wholesale pricing, nobody can touch these low prices – Instant cold packs are a convenient direct replacement for crushed ice used as first aid on sport injuries. It is also important not to refrigerate before activation. Ice Securing Wrap Shur-Band Elastic Ice Securing Wrap is Ideal for Holding Ice or Hot / Cold Compress in place over an Injury. Excellent for cold compression therapy and ideal for knees, shoulders and other hard-to-hold locations in need to hot or cold treatment. Latex-free self-closure bandage that secures and supports without clips, pins or tape. Reusable Hot & Cold Packs Reusable Hot / Cold Packs. Soothing versatility for whatever ails you. Our reusable hot/cold pack provides cold therapy for minor pain and swelling and heat therapy for minor muscle joint pain, stiffness and muscle spasms. See the COOL KIDS PACKS!

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Fire Blankets and Fire Retardant Clothing

What is a Fire Blanket, and What about Fire Retardant Clothing?



Fire blankets are designed to trow over small fires to smother them – fires need oxygen, and depriving them of this will cause them to go out. Older fire Blankets had asbestos in them, so if you are unsure of the age of your fire blanket, you should replace to assure you aren’t introducing new hazards into your environment while eliminating the fire.

With Fire Retardant Clothing, generally there are four types of fiber and or blends: 100% cotton, 88% cotton/12% nylon blends and inherently fire retardant fibers such as Nomex (an aramid) or Modacrylic. It is not unusual to find any of these fibers to be blended with other fibers. With the exception of 100% Cotton, which may wash out after about fifty washes, these fabrics fire retardancy will not wash out. In purchasing any garment one should read the laundering instructions or google them to maximize the life of the item. It should be noted fabric softeners should not be used as they can coat the fabric diminishing the effectiveness of the cloth.

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Assess, Alert, and Attend

This is the basic process of recognizing and handling a medical emergency.  The first part of the sequence is Assess. Assessing a scene should take only about 5-15 seconds, although there are a number of important issues that need to be evaluated in this period.  The first thing to determine is whether or not the environment poses a hazard to you as a rescuer.  If a scene is unsafe, do not enter it. This is especially important to remember when dealing with emergencies involving confined spaces and electricity, among others. During this phase you should also attempt to determine the number of victims, the nature of the injuries, and any clues to the cause of the injury.



Once you determine there is an emergency, it is time to Alert the Emergency Medical System. Ask a bystander to activate EMS by calling 911, or if you make the call, remember to speak calmly and include important information such as the location, phone number, and the victim’s condition. If possible, try to use a landline instead of a cell phone. Expect a delay in activating the EMS if a cell phone is the only communication available.

Always hang up last.

Attending to a victim can be anything from stopping bleeding, giving CPR, or simply speaking reassuringly and activating EMS. Don’t wait for someone more qualified to arrive.  If you are there, YOU are the most qualified person available. Your care of an injured person begins as you approach them.  As a first aid caregiver, it is important for you to appear calm and confident in front of a victim, even if you are frightened or confused. Give comfort, reassurance, monitor the victim and explain your actions. Start with a quick, but thorough head-to-toe exam. If the victim is conscious, obtain consent prior to proceeding to Primary Assessment.

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Primary Assessment

Begin your treatment and primary assessment by talking to the victim. If there is more than one victim, use the Triage sections below for assessment and assisting. Evaluate for confusion or unresponsiveness.  If the victim has been unconscious for any length of time, immobilize the head and neck, and activate EMS immediately.  Perform a head-to-toe evaluation.  Look for signs of trauma, bleeding, deformity, embedded or impaling objects, discoloration, or anything that might be of concern.  Be sure to locate any concealed injuries that may be more life threatening than the obvious injuries that you located at first.  To determine if an individual may have a potential fracture, simply ask them if they can move the area without causing pain.  If they are unable to move the area, or if it causes them significant pain, do not allow them to move it, and treat it as if known to be a fracture.



In order to prioritize your treatment, you should be constantly aware of the most life threatening situations.  This becomes even more important when you are dealing with an unconscious patient who cannot relate information to you. It may be necessary to ask yourself several important questions:

Life Threatening Priorities

1. Is there breathing?

2. Is there a pulse?

3. Is there severe bleeding?

4. Is there severe shock?

These items must be dealt with in order of their severity.  For example, although any of these situations could cause a fatality, severe bleeding should not be addressed until steps 1 and 2, breathing and heartbeat, have been remedied, as these are a more immediate threat to life.

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