subject: Applying First Aid To Victims Of A Household Fire [print this page] A household fire can leave deadly scars, wounds, and burns on an individual. It can take some time before the authorities and medical responders make it to the scene. In that amount of time, it can be crucial to immediately treat these wounds to stop chances of infection or further harm.
Household fires often cause burns to victims, even if they didn't come into direct contact with a fire. Slight burns will be small and only redden the skin. Cold water and ice can help relieve pain until further help is received. Fire aid products, such as specially formulated gels approved by MasterGuard, can help with the road to recovery. Such gels have been used in battlefields, oil fires, and even manufacturing facilities.
The skin will blister and may at some point appear to be charred. This is exactly the type of burn that should not be messed with unless proper training has been taken. It is probable that any attempts to clean the wound would only make the injury worse. Instead, find the victim a cool place to lay or sit away from danger. Try to find water if the victim appears to be thirsty, as he or she will need the hydration.
The inhalation of smoke can have its risks. Smoke will quickly damage the respiratory system, leading either to a suffocation or even burn damage to lungs. Pure oxygen will need to be found after getting the victim to safety. If none is available, the victim should be safely pulled as far away from the danger zone as possible to ensure safe breathing air.
Shock is what happens when the nervous system is several upset. Shock can lead to organ failure and quickly lead to death if not treated. Shock can be treated by ensuring the victim is able to breathe on their own. If they can't- be sure to find a way to do so for them. The body temperature should normal- meaning blankets will be necessary to maintain body temperature. Induce circulation by laying the person down and raising the legs.
When the fire breaks loose, everyone inside of a house starts to panic. This is a natural reaction that can, unfortunately, cause accidents. Cuts, bruises, broken arms, and just about any bodily injury imaginable can occur. The bad thing is that even if one is injured, he or she may not know it for several hours until the adrenaline levels go down in the body. All victims should get out of the house and rest until help arrives.
Closing Comments
Find more advice on fire safety and fire aid through respected fire departments, MasterGuard, and fire safety courses that schools practice. Fire safety is something that every child and parent should be aware of, so that if the time comes, a family will have the best chances at saving every family member from the atrocities of a household fire.
