KMPH FOX 26 | Central San Joaquin Valley News SourceSummer First Aid

From the American Red Cross:

Most common first aid injuries:

Bleeding – Small cuts and wounds should be cleaned with water. If no water is available, wipe down the wound with antiseptic wipes, then apply antiseptic ointment and cover with a band-aid.

For deep or severe wounds, remember to call 9-1-1, apply plenty of pressure using gauze, and wrap with a roller bandage and seal with first aid tape.

Burns – To treat a burn, it is important to run the affected area under cool running water and wrap the area with sterile dressings.

Muscles, Bones, and Joints Injuries – Immediately apply ice to the injured area to prevent inflammation. Try not to move the person, and apply either a hard or soft splint.

When applying a splint, remember to support the injured area, check for warmth and color. Splint injury in the position it is found and tie splint in a safe position.

It is important to remember in an emergency involving serious cuts, burns or injury to follow the Emergency Action Steps, which is to check, call and care.

For more information, visit www.arccentralvalley.org or contact your local chapter at (559) 455-1000.