First Aid 



479 



American Museum of Safety. 



TREATING A SPRAIN 



of instructed aid at first often turns the tables against him." 

 Since most accidents occur when the services of a doctor are 

 not immediately available, the importance of first aid is apparent. 



Common Emergencies. Among the most common cases 

 needing first aid are burns, scalds, shock, bruises, sprains, strains, 

 dislocation, fractures, wounds, 

 nose bleed, fainting, sunstroke, 

 frostbite, poisoning, and 

 asphyxia. 



Burns and Scalds. Burns 

 are caused by contact with fire, 

 hot substances or strong chemi- 

 cals ; and scalds by contact with 

 steam or boiling water. These 

 are especially dangerous with 

 children and with elderly peo- 

 ple. The treatment depends on 

 the extent of the injury. If the 

 skin is merely reddened or 

 slightly blistered, the exclusion of air by a thin paste made with 

 water and baking soda covered with a light bandage to hold the 

 dressing in place is usually sufficient. If the blistering is exten- 

 sive and the tissues beneath are affected, a physician should be 

 called. Meanwhile, the burned part should be immersed in warm 

 water, or covered with carron oil or vaseline overlaid with cloth 

 soaked in the oil. 



In case you see a person whose clothing is on fire, prompt 

 action is necessary. Seize the nearest rug, shawl, overcoat, or 

 other heavy woolen article, wrap it quickly around the sufferer, 

 to smother the flames and if possible keep them from his face. 

 If necessary, throw him to the floor and roll him over and over. 



Shock. When suddenly hurt in any way, one often feels 

 dizzy, short of breath, and sick, and may even lose consciousness 

 for a moment. This kind of illness is called shock. A person 

 affected in this way should be placed on his back so that the action 

 of his heart and his respiratory movements may be as little 

 disturbed as possible. 



