Lykkers, have you ever imagined being the only one around when someone suddenly faints, chokes, or gets injured? In those critical moments, waiting for help might be too late.
But what if we could step up and take action? Mastering some simple, basic first aid skills doesn't just help others—it could save lives, including our own. Let's go through a few life-saving methods that we can all learn and apply anytime.
Recognizing Emergencies: Act Fast, Stay Calm
The first step in any emergency is awareness. If someone collapses, bleeds, or shows unusual behavior, we must stay calm and assess the situation. Call for emergency help immediately. Meanwhile, keeping the person stable and safe is key. Remember, our goal is not to be a doctor—but to bridge the time between the incident and professional help.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is crucial if someone stops breathing. Within the first four minutes, early CPR can raise survival chances up to 50%. Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest, stack the other hand on top, and push hard and fast—about 100–120 times per minute. For every 30 compressions, give 2 rescue breaths. Tilt the head back, lift the chin, pinch the nose, and breathe into their mouth until the chest rises.
- Quick tip: Never waste time pressing on random acupressure points—it's not effective and wastes time.
Heimlich Maneuver: Stop Choking Before It's Too Late
When someone is choking and can't speak, cough, or breathe, we need to help immediately. Stand behind them, place your fist just above the belly button, and press inward and upward with quick force. Keep repeating until the object comes out.
- For ourselves: If no one is around, press your belly against a chair's backrest or use your own hands to apply pressure in the same area.
- For babies under 1 year old: Hold the baby face down along your arm or thigh, support the head, and give 5 strong back slaps between the shoulder blades. Flip the baby over and use two fingers to press the chest 5 times. Repeat both steps until the object is dislodged.
Burns: Cool Water, Not Ice
When we or someone else gets burned, rinse the area with cool (not icy) running water for at least 30 minutes. Then gently cover the wound with a clean towel or gauze. For small burns, apply burn ointment. Serious cases should go straight to the hospital.
Avoid common mistakes:
- Don't apply toothpaste or sauces—they can infect the wound.
- Don't break blisters.
- Don't use ice—it damages the skin further.
Nosebleeds: The Right Way to Stop Bleeding
Tilt your head slightly forward, not backward, and pinch the soft part of the nose for about 4–8 minutes. Cold compresses on the forehead or neck can also help slow the bleeding. If the nosebleed doesn't stop, it's time to see a doctor.
- Why not tilt back? The blood might flow into the throat and cause coughing or choking.
Fractures: Support Before Moving
If someone suffers a fracture, don't try to straighten the injured area. Instead, use a board, stick, or even a book to stabilize it before moving the person. Tie the injured arm to the chest or a broken leg to the uninjured one. Avoid too much movement until help arrives.
Fishbone in the Throat: Don't Swallow Anything
If we can see the fish spine, carefully remove it. But if we can't, and there's discomfort or difficulty speaking, go to the hospital immediately. Never try to swallow food to "push it down"—it can cause bleeding or more serious injuries.
Sprained Ankle: Cold First, Heat Later
Right after a sprain, apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Only after 24–48 hours should we use heat to improve blood flow and help healing. If swelling and pain continue, get medical help.
Dog Bites: Clean It Thoroughly
Wash the wound under running water for at least 15 minutes, then use soap for another 15 minutes. After washing, press out some blood to help flush the wound, disinfect it, and head to the hospital for a rabies shot.
- Important: Never draw on the wound with your mouth—this increases the risk of infection.
We Can All Be Everyday Heroes, Lykkers!
Lykkers, learning these first aid basics isn't about becoming professionals—it's about showing we're ready to act when it matters most. A quick response at a crucial time can make all the difference and may even save a life.
Have you ever faced an emergency and wished you knew what to do? Or maybe now you feel more confident to lend a hand when something unexpected happens. Let's keep growing together, sharing knowledge, and encouraging one another. With these skills, we're not just learning—we're becoming real-life helpers in our everyday world.