The brave efforts of the emergency services continues to bring relief to the Australian communities facing bushfire threats.
The first priority in managing a burn is to stop the burning process, cool the burn (which will provide pain relief) and cover the burn.
-Smother the flames with a fire blanket or blanket
-Move away from the burn source
-Cool the area with water preferably, if no water is available use a hydrogel product (such as burnaid)
Although many people associate fire casualties with heat and flames, smoke inhalation is actually the leading cause of death amongst those who get caught in fires.
*Note: If it is safe to move someone to safety, filter the smoke for both you and the casualty with a P2 mask or cloth (cloth nappy or muslin work well).
People with asthma may have a more severe reaction to smoke inhalation than other people. If the person is conscious apply the following plan.
Asthma First Aid Plan
Step 1:
Sit the person comfortably upright. Be calm and reassuring. Do not leave the person alone.
Step 2:
Step 3:
Wait four minutes. If there is little or no improvement give another four puffs.
Step 4:
If there is still no improvement, call an ambulance immediately. Keep giving four puffs every four minutes until the ambulance arrives.
Note: If someone is showing signs of a severe asthma attack you should call an ambulance immediately and follow this Asthma First Aid Plan until they arrive.
For more information about asthma read Asthma attack onset: learning to know the signs and symptoms.
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