Everyone in your family should know the basics of first aid. In addition, you should take steps to prevent injuries. Here are some tips for making your home safer: Household chemicals (figure A) should never be stored near stoves, microwaves or other heat sources. If you store chemicals beneath your sink, install childproof locks (figure B) so pets and small children don't have access. Post emergency numbers for fire, ambulance, police and poison-control services on every phone in your house. Police, fire and ambulance services often provide these numbers on preprinted stickers (figure C). In addition, keep emergency numbers posted on the refrigerator. If someone swallows a household chemical, first call a poison-control center, or dial 911. Be sure to have the container available so you can explain what chemicals are involved. The emergency responder can talk you through the appropriate steps. No kitchen is complete without a basic first-aid kit. Standard kits should include large and small bandages, sterile gauze and burn cream. Additional first-aid equipment might include antiseptic wipes, rubber gloves and small wooden splints. You might also consider adding an instant cold pack, which refrigerates itself with chemicals. A compact blanket (figure D) can help keep shock victims comfortable until help arrives. If your first-aid emergency involves bodily fluids, be sure to wear rubber gloves. When you're finished, place any used materials in a biohazard bag (figure E), and take the bag to a hospital for disposal. Prepackaged first-aid kits are available from the American Red Cross. The first-aid equipment is labeled with graphic illustrations, and the kits include a flip chart and booklet to show how to deal with emergencies. Prices range from $10 to $30. Check with your local chapter for more information.
RESOURCES :
First-aid kits
American Red Cross (ARC)
Washington, DC 20013
Phone: Day: 703-206-6740 N
Website: www.redcross.org
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