Heat Illness Prevention

Heat Illness Prevention

May 25, 2023 | Health

Introduction:

Today, we will be discussing the importance of heat illness prevention in the workplace. Working in hot environments exposes employees to the risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, and dehydration. These conditions can be serious and even life-threatening if not properly addressed. It is crucial to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, implement preventive measures, and know how to respond in case of an emergency. In this toolbox talk, we will explore the different heat-related illnesses, prevention methods, and appropriate actions to ensure the well-being of all workers.

Heat-Related Illnesses

Heat Cramps: Heat cramps are muscle pains or spasms that occur during or after intense physical activity in hot conditions. They are often caused by an electrolyte imbalance due to excessive sweating. Workers may experience painful muscle contractions, usually in the legs, arms, or abdomen.

Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition that can occur after prolonged exposure to high temperatures and inadequate fluid intake. It is characterized by heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, headache, and elevated body temperature. Workers with heat exhaustion may appear pale, have cool and moist skin, and experience fatigue and muscle cramps.

Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is a medical emergency and the most serious heat-related illness. It occurs when the body’s temperature regulation system fails, and the core body temperature rises to dangerous levels. Unlike heat exhaustion, heat stroke is characterized by a significantly high body temperature, typically above 103°F (39.4°C). Symptoms include a rapid and strong pulse, hot and dry skin (no sweating), confusion, loss of consciousness, and seizures. Heat stroke requires immediate medical attention as it can be life-threatening.

Dehydration: Dehydration is a condition caused by excessive fluid loss, typically through sweating. It can lead to fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, decreased urine output, and dark-colored urine. Although dehydration is not solely a heat-related illness, it often accompanies heat exposure and can exacerbate the risk of other heat-related conditions.

Prevention Methods

To prevent heat-related illnesses, the following measures should be implemented:

Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Encourage regular water breaks and provide access to cool drinking water on the worksite. Remember, water is the best choice for hydration, and sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages should be avoided. Make sure to replace electrolytes with a commercial sports drink.

Acclimatization: Gradually introduce workers to hot environments, allowing their bodies to adjust over time. New or returning workers should be given time to adapt to the heat gradually. This process helps reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses.

Rest Breaks: Schedule regular rest breaks in shaded or cool areas. Encourage workers to take breaks when needed to rest and cool down. During these breaks, workers can replenish fluids and rehydrate their bodies.

Proper Clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing suitable for hot conditions. Use wide-brimmed hats or neck coverings to protect against direct sun exposure. Clothing should allow for adequate ventilation and sweat evaporation to help regulate body temperature.

Work Scheduling: Consider adjusting work schedules to avoid the hottest parts of the day, if possible. Tasks that require intense physical activity should be scheduled during cooler periods. If unavoidable, ensure that additional preventive measures are in place, such as increased rest breaks and hydration opportunities.

Engineering Controls: Implement engineering controls such as shade structures, ventilation, and cooling fans to reduce ambient temperatures in work areas. Providing shaded areas for breaks and rotating workers between hot and cool tasks can help minimize heat exposure.

Recognizing and Responding to Heat-Related Illnesses

Signs and Symptoms: It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, including excessive sweating, pale or clammy skin, muscle cramps, weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Promptly report any symptoms experienced by yourself or coworkers.

Responding to Heat-Related Illnesses:

Heat Cramps: If a worker experiences heat cramps, move them to a cool area, provide fluids for rehydration, and gently massage and stretch the affected muscles. Resting in a shaded area and taking a break from physical exertion can help alleviate symptoms.

Heat Exhaustion: If a worker shows signs of heat exhaustion, it is important to take immediate action. Move the person to a shaded or air-conditioned area, loosen or remove excess clothing, cool the person using cold compresses or misting, and provide fluids for rehydration. Contact a supervisor or medical professional for further assistance.

Heat Stroke: Heat stroke is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention. Call emergency services right away. While waiting for help to arrive, move the person to a shaded area, remove excess clothing, and cool the body rapidly using cold water immersion or wet towels. Monitor the person’s condition closely and provide reassurance. 

Conclusion:

Heat-related illnesses are preventable if proper precautions are taken. By understanding the different types of heat-related illnesses, implementing preventive measures such as hydration, acclimatization, rest breaks, appropriate clothing, work scheduling, and engineering controls, and knowing how to recognize and respond to heat-related emergencies, we can ensure the safety and well-being of all workers. Remember, everyone has a responsibility to look out for one another in hot working conditions. Stay informed, stay hydrated, and stay safe.

    Purchase Sqwincher Hydration Packets Here
    Tick Safety

    Tick Safety

    May 12, 2023 | Health

    As the weather gets warmer, many of us will spend more time outdoors enjoying activities such as hiking, camping, and gardening. Unfortunately, spending time in wooded or grassy areas also puts us at risk of coming into contact with ticks. Ticks are small arachnids that attach themselves to the skin and can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and tick-borne encephalitis. In this toolbox talk, we will discuss the importance of tick safety and the precautions you can take to protect yourself.

    Identification

    The first step in protecting yourself from ticks is to be able to identify them. Ticks are small, flat, and oval-shaped. They can range in size from a poppy seed to a small grape. They are most active in the spring and summer months, but can be active all year round in some areas. Ticks can be found in wooded and grassy areas, as well as in your own backyard.

    Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

    When working or spending time in areas where ticks may be present, it is important to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes long-sleeved shirts, long pants tucked into socks, and closed-toe shoes. Clothing should be light-colored, as it makes it easier to spot ticks.

    Repellents

    In addition to wearing appropriate clothing, you can also use repellents to help keep ticks away. There are many different types of repellents available, including those that contain DEET, picaridin, or permethrin. Be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully. Apply repellents to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.

    Tick Checks

    After spending time outdoors, it is important to do a thorough tick check. Ticks like to hide in warm, moist areas such as the groin, armpits, and scalp. Make sure to check these areas carefully, as well as behind the ears, inside the belly button, and around the waistband. If you find a tick attached to your skin, use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out.

    Tick Removal and Disposal

    If you find a tick attached to your skin, it is important to remove it as soon as possible. The longer the tick remains attached, the greater the risk of disease transmission. Use a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull it straight out. Do not twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin. Once the tick is removed, dispose of it in a sealed container or flush it down the toilet.

    Monitoring for Symptoms

    Even with proper precautions, it is still possible to contract a tick-borne illness. If you experience any symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, or a rash after spending time outdoors, it is important to seek medical attention. Be sure to tell your healthcare provider that you may have been exposed to ticks.

    Conclusion:

    Ticks can be a serious health hazard, but by taking the proper precautions and being aware of the risks, you can protect yourself and enjoy the great outdoors. Remember to wear appropriate PPE, use repellents, perform tick checks, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. Stay safe and have fun!

      Respiratory Hazards & Protection

      Respiratory Hazards & Protection

      Apr 3, 2023 | Health

      Introduction:

      Respiratory hazards are a common concern in many workplaces, especially those that involve working with hazardous substances or in environments with poor air quality. These hazards can lead to respiratory illnesses and other health problems if not properly addressed. One way to protect yourself from these hazards is by using respiratory protection equipment. In this toolbox talk, we will discuss some common respiratory hazards and the importance of using respiratory protection equipment to prevent exposure.

      Common Respiratory Hazards:

      There are many types of respiratory hazards that workers may encounter on the job. Some of the most common hazards include:

      1. Dust: Dust particles can irritate the respiratory system and cause respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. Workers in industries such as construction, mining, and agriculture may be at risk of exposure to dust.

      2. Fumes: Fumes are small particles that are released when a material is heated. They can be inhaled and cause respiratory irritation, as well as other health problems such as metal fume fever. Workers in industries such as welding, soldering, and metalworking may be at risk of exposure to fumes.

      3. Gases: Gases can be toxic and cause respiratory problems or even death if inhaled in high concentrations. Workers in industries such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas production, and mining may be at risk of exposure to gases.

      4. Vapors: Vapors are gaseous forms of substances that can be inhaled and cause respiratory problems or other health effects. Workers in industries such as painting, printing, and dry cleaning may be at risk of exposure to vapors.

      Respiratory Protection Equipment:

      The use of respiratory protection equipment is essential in preventing exposure to respiratory hazards. Respiratory protection equipment includes devices such as respirators, masks, and other breathing apparatuses. It is important to select the correct type of respiratory protection equipment based on the type of hazard you may encounter on the job.

      The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established standards for respiratory protection equipment. These standards require employers to provide respiratory protection equipment to workers when the hazards cannot be adequately controlled by other means. OSHA also requires that employers train workers on the proper use of respiratory protection equipment.

      Types of Respiratory Protection Equipment:

      There are two main types of respiratory protection equipment: air-purifying respirators and supplied-air respirators.

      1. Air-purifying respirators: Air-purifying respirators filter out contaminants from the air as you breathe. There are three main types of air-purifying respirators: filtering facepiece respirators, half-mask respirators, and full-face respirators.
      • Filtering facepiece respirators (FFRs) are the most common type of respirator and are often used in healthcare settings. FFRs are disposable and designed to filter out particles such as dust, fumes, and airborne pathogens. They do not provide protection against gases or vapors.
      • Half-mask respirators cover the nose and mouth and have replaceable filters that can protect against a variety of hazards. They are often used in industries such as construction, painting, and welding.
      • Full-face respirators cover the entire face and have replaceable filters that provide protection against a wider range of hazards. They are often used in industries such as chemical manufacturing, oil and gas production, and mining.
      1. Supplied-air respirators: Supplied-air respirators provide clean air from an outside source, such as a compressor or air tank. There are two main types of supplied-air respirators: airline respirators and self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs).
      • Airline respirators use a hose to supply clean air from an outside source. They are often used in industries such as spray painting, sandblasting, and asbestos removal.
      • Self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBAs) are worn on the back and provide clean air from a tank. They are often used in emergency response situations, such as firefighting or rescue operations.

      Proper Use of Respiratory Protection Equipment:

      To ensure the effectiveness of respiratory protection equipment, it is important to use it properly. Here are some tips for using respiratory protection equipment:

      1. Select the appropriate equipment: Choose the right type of respirator based on the hazards you may encounter on the job.
      2. Perform a fit test: A fit test should be performed to ensure the respirator fits properly and provides adequate protection.
      3. Conduct a user seal check: A user seal check should be performed every time the respirator is worn to ensure a proper seal.
      4. Follow maintenance and storage procedures: Respiratory protection equipment should be properly cleaned and stored according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

      Conclusion:

      In conclusion, respiratory hazards are a common concern in many workplaces and can lead to respiratory illnesses and other health problems. To prevent exposure to respiratory hazards, it is important to use respiratory protection equipment such as respirators, masks, and other breathing apparatuses. Employers are required by OSHA to provide respiratory protection equipment to workers and to train them on the proper use of the equipment. By selecting the appropriate equipment and using it properly, workers can protect themselves from respiratory hazards and stay safe on the job.

        Purchase Respiratory Protection Here

        Top 8 Winter Driving Safety Tips

        Top 8 Winter Driving Safety Tips

        Oct 29, 2018 | Health, Safety

        Winter is coming! Aside from the Game of Throne’s tagline, yes, the winter months are upon us. Along with cold temperatures and snowfall that are present during winter months, an increase in vehicle incidents are statistically on the way as well.

        According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 1,300 people are killed in vehicle crashes and more than 100,000 people are injured in vehicle crashes every year with road conditions that contain snow, slush, and icy pavement.

        In the busy business world of today, it is imperative families, employees, and individuals can travel the roads safely. Just because there is snow on the ground, doesn’t mean vehicles incidents have to occur.

        Here are the Top 8 Winter Driving Safety Tips that can reduce the likelihood you will be involved in a vehicle accident.

         

        1.) Check the weather radar for snow

        The first way to be prepared for driving during winter months and improve your winter driving safety is to check the weather radar the night before. Checking the radar not only allows you to plan for your trip the next day, but it gives you a live update on any storms that could be passing through your area. Keep in mind, weather patterns change, so it is important to check the weather radar several times throughout the day.

         

        2.) Fix any maintenance issues

        Have you been ignoring those lights on the dashboard telling you to service your vehicle? If so, you better plan on taking your vehicle in for service. Keeping your vehicle serviced during winter months gives you the assurance that your 2008 Toyota Camry is actually safe to drive even with heavy snow. Don’t ignore these warning lights. If you are in an area that statistically receives heavy amounts of snow fall, consider changing your tires for a winter recommend tire. Here are a few resources with tips on how to winterize your vehicle.:

        Bridgestone

          https://www.bridgestonetire.com/tread-and-trend/drivers-ed/winter-snow-tires-vs-all-season-tires

        Tire Rack.com

         https://www.tirerack.com/content/tirerack/desktop/en/winter_snow/packages.html

        Good Year

        https://www.goodyear.com/en-US/tires/category/snowK

        3.) Inspect your vehicle daily

        Conducting a quick inspection of your vehicle on a daily basis is one way to improve your winter driving safety. Allow the vehicle to warm up 15 minutes before you are set to leave and bust out that ice scraper. Dust off snow or ice that is on the windows, turning signals and on top of your vehicle. Walk 360 degree around your vehicle and look for any signs that it is mechanically unsafe to drive. Make sure to frequently check that your windshield wipers are in good condition and windshield wiper fluid levels are topped off. Test and verify the turning signals and 4-Way Hazard lights are working properly. If there are any lights that are not working, get it fixed immediately. This quick 5-10-minute check is worth it.

         

        4.) Leave the house earlier

        During winter months it is tempting to stay in your warm, cozy bed that extra 30 minutes, so you don’t have to face the reality of the blistering cold. This is a major Error Precursor. Road conditions in the winter months often makes it unsafe to drive the normal posted speed limits. If it normally takes you 20 minutes to get to work, leave your home an additional 20 minutes earlier. Running late to work contributes to drivers feeling the need to speed. Leaving early will allow you to avoid being late and improve your winter driving safety.

         

        5.) Work from home

        More and more companies allow the option to work from home to their employees. If you can work from home, avoid the trip to the office altogether. Working from home keeps more drivers off the road and reduces the number of vehicles that could potentially be involved in a vehicle incident.

         

        6.) Utilize car trip services (Uber & Lyft)

        Taking an Uber or Lyft may be a safer alternative than driving your own vehicle to the grocery store or to get takeout especially during winter months. The two trip service companies allow individuals to request a ride from almost anywhere. They also offer Programs such as Uber Eats, where drivers will pick up food up for you and deliver it for a small fee. Instead of going to get takeout food, have it delivered right to you! Be advised however, before getting in any car trip service, that the driver is ultimately in control of the vehicle. If you feel your car service driver is driving unsafely, request they slow down or pull over at a safe location.

         

        7.) Minimize Distractions Behind the Wheel

        If you can’t work from home, and requesting an uber to work is out of the question, minimizing distractions behind the wheel is one of the most proactive solutions to reducing vehicle incidents. Distractions can include: cell phones, radios, eating, drinking, passengers, pets, etc. Utilize Bluetooth audio ear pieces for hands free calling. Turn the radio off and wait until you get to work to drink your Dunkin coffee. If there are passengers in the vehicle with you, ensure everyone has their seat belt on, and is not distracting you with questions like: “Did you see the new Netflix series that was just released last night?”. The simple distracting conversation can wait.

         

        8.) SLOW DOWN This Season

        The easiest way to to improve your winter driving safety is to SLOW DOWN! Practice the 3-Second Rule and allow more space in between you and the vehicle in front of you Here is how to practice the 3-Second Rule. As you are driving pick an object that you will  pass (road sign, mile marker, structure, building etc). Count to 3 out loud. When the vehicle in front of you passes that object begin to count to 3 seconds. If you reach that same object in under 3 seconds, you are following to closely. Monitor road conditions and allow more space between you and other vehicles on less maintained roads. If there is excess snow, ice, or slush, increase the 3 seconds, to 5. When following larger vehicles such as tanker trucks, or eighteen wheeler’s it may be necessary to increase to 10 seconds. Braking on snow and ice takes longer. Give yourself more space and slow down.

         

        Was this helpful? Leave a comment, and check out our other blog posts for more safety, first aid and health care tips. Go to b42l.com

        Why Should Businesses Learn CPR?

        Why Should Businesses Learn CPR?

        Oct 19, 2018 | Health, Professional, Safety

        If you are superman, PLEASE STOP READING

        If you are NOT SUPERMAN PLEASE PROCEED

         

        Because you are not superman you most likely fall into one of these three categories:

        1. Employee
        2. Employer (manager/decision maker)
        3. Community Member

         

        Although all of these groups are unique, there is one evident similarity between them. That similarity is, each groups member’s are at risk to either suffer an emergency situation or be a bystander in an emergency. Having a proper Emergency Plan in place is a proactive step to ensure your staff/group is aware of these situations, but what happens when they need to act?

        If the situation becomes life or death, can you confidently proclaim: “My employees have the best fighting chance”

        If you are unsure please continue reading.

         

         

        Reasons to Train Your Staff for an Emergency Situation

        1. The Workforce is Unprepared as a Whole:
        • According to the American Heart Association 55% of employees in corporate offices, hospitality, education and industry/labor cant get CPR/AED/First Aid training from their employer. What was more shocking is that nearly 50% of employees couldn’t even locate an AED in their workplace.
        • US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports that there are somewhere close to 10,000 cardiac arrest cases occurring in the workplace every year.

         

        1. Prevalence of Diverse Emergency Situations: THE STATS SPEAK FOR THEMSELVES
          • The CDC reported the number 7 cause of death being diabetic emergencies. There were a total of  79,535 lives lost between 2011-2014. With nearly 26,000 deaths every year, diabetic emergencies are a tremendous threat and should be taken seriously.
          • There were 1.7 million emergency department visits with asthma as the primary diagnosis in 2016. Many people believe asthma is a condition that only athletes suffer. It is evident that many individuals visit the emergency room due to asthma related emergencies. The best plan of action you can take is having your staff aware of these statistics and preparing them to respond.
          • The CDC also reports that there were 16 million cases of Hay Fever in the past 12 months (2016 data).  Hay Fever, is an allergy caused by pollen or dust in which mucous membranes are inflamed in the eyes and nose. Whether you are in the landscaping business and are exposed to grass, or an office that has routine dust collection, your EMPLOYEES ARE AT RISK!

        These are just a few of the emergency situations a workforce could be exposed to. Being prepared in the event of an emergency is the best way to ensure you protect your employees and reduce the risk of fatalities caused by emergencies.

         

        1. COMPLIANCE COMPLIANCE COMPLIANCE

        One pressing reason to get your staff trained is to ultimately protect yourself against fines and auditing scares.

        OSHA standard 1910.151 clearly states:

        “In the absence of an infirmary, clinic, or hospital in near proximity to the workplace which is used for the treatment of all injured employees, a person or persons shall be adequately trained to render first aid”.

        Many first aid programs cover the following topics:

        • Shock
        • Diabetic Emergencies/Allergic Reactions
        • Breathing emergencies including choking
        • Slips/trips/falls (suspected or obvious trauma causing broken bones)
        • Bleeding emergencies
        • Heat/cold related emergencies
        • Suspected poisoning/overdose including proper Naloxone protocol.

         

        Now that we have covered a few reasons why the employer should invest in preparing for emergency situations, let’s take a look at why employees and community members should BUY IN TO EMERGENCY TRAINING:

         

        Reasons Employees or Community Members should become trained

        1. You could experience an emergency yourself – if you are trained in emergency preparedness, we applaud you in your efforts to provide care. All too often though, there have been instances where the person who was the designated trained, experiences an emergency themselves.
        2. You can use your skills outside of the office – While we have been highlighting workplace preparedness, you may end up in a situation out of the office that requires your skills to be used.
        3. Rules have changed – Yes, you may have taken a CPR class 20 years ago when you were in PE. That being said, certifications are only valid for 2 years upon completion. The reason behind a 2 year certification is because standards change and science teaches us more up to date information to apply to use. One of the biggest changes is the use of Compression Only CPR. In this form of care, a responder chooses not to administer rescue breaths.

         

        Take a look where the fitness staff used their skills out of the classroom to help save the life of a Gonzaga basketball player on the court.

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbZJst2CHhI

         

        Where should I get my staff trained?

        There are plenty of resources available to you. The most important thing to keep in mind is where the information is coming from. Having trainers that are certified instructors makes the difference and brings credibility to your event. Here are a few resources:

        Before It’s Too Late LLC – B42L.com

        • B42L is based out of Pittsburgh, PA and has certified nearly 1,000 participants
        • B42L travels to your location and provides onsite training
        • B42L has all instructors certified through The American Red Cross
        • B42L has trained companies in the following industries: Oil and Gas, Home care and nursing, physical therapy, trucking, construction, manufacturing, and many more

         

        You can also use resources such as The American Red Cross or American Heart Association.

         

        Final Thoughts: It is important to take ownership of safety protocol and emergency preparedness. Employers should abide by OSHA regulation to stay in compliance. You could fall victim to an emergency situation yourself. B42L is proud to serve your training needs!

         

        Visit B42L.com to save your seat and check out other safety resources.

        Was this helpful? Leave a comment and connect with us on social media or you can visit our website at B42L.com

         

        Steps For Recognizing and Responding to An Emergency Situation

        Steps For Recognizing and Responding to An Emergency Situation

        Sep 28, 2018 | Health, Safety

        Being able to recognize an emergency situation is just as important as responding to one. When you are planning on intervening in an emergency situation it is always important to make sure you are not putting yourself at risk. Think about it, it’s great having the skills needed to help a victim, but if you are putting yourself in danger that is never a good recipe. Actually, it is a recipe for disaster because you could be making the situation twice as BAD! First, lets go over a few emergency situations and then we can talk about the proper steps to take when responding.

         

        Examples of emergency situations

         

        Disclaimer: Of course, B42L is a huge advocate for helping others in need, but let’s make sure we are protecting ourselves and alerting proper medical or emergency response teams when we need to. If you ever think a situation is too dangerous or risky to handle alone, you should always call 911 or a designated emergency number.

        1. Cardiac emergencies: Heart attacks, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, breathing emergencies
        2. Choking
        3. Bleeding emergencies (yes nosebleeds can be an emergency too)
        4. Sudden illnesses: Diabetic emergencies, shock, allergic reactions, seizures
        5. Suspected broken bones/bruising
        6. Environmental emergencies: Heat related or cold related situations
        7. Poisoning

         

        More importantly, we should point out that the emergencies above are not the only situations you may be faced with. Being prepared for a multitude of situations is always the best precautionary step to saving a life.

         

        How should I handle an emergency situation?

         

        There isn’t a blanket response to this question. Although, you should always have sound judgment and keep calm. The victim suffering is most likely experiencing not only physical pain but some type of emotional and situational turmoil in their head. Victims frequently ask questions in the “What-if category”.

        • What if no one can help me?
        • What if they don’t get here in time?
        • What if this person helping me doesn’t know what they are doing?

         

        As a responder, you don’t need to have every answer at your disposal. It is imperative you keep the victim calm, and assure them that you have the situation under control. Here is a quick step by step reference when you need to recognize something is taking place and decide what the best plan of action is to respond.

         

        NOTE: You should always get consent when responding to someone in an emergency situation. There are instances where consent is implied, but a simple, “Can I help? I’m trained in First Aid” goes a long way.

         

        1. Check the scene, then check the person

        It may be retrospective thinking to actually ask yourself, “ Is this scene safe for me to enter or intervene?” This question though really can help mitigate risk and assure the proper tools and personnel arrive. A good example we like to give is responding to a car accident. At first glance you may think to just pull off to the side of the road and start helping immediately. You are superman so why not right? No!

        Let’s take another look at the situation. Not only is there a car accident, but it is also rush hour, raining, and you are on a highway. In this situation your best plan of attack is pulling off to the side of the road and making a quick phone call. Describe to the proper authority what you see and use any clues to help pass information along.

        Checking the scene makes sure nothing will happen to you when you respond. If you have deemed your scene safe to enter, proceed by checking the person. Make note if the victim is conscious or not and then use them to help assess the situation at hand. You can ask them all about how they got into this situation and use your first aid skills to help them out. If the victim is not conscious, CALL 911 or the designated number immediately. Furthermore, you can proceed to care within your scope of practice and certification.

         

        1. Call the appropriate phone number

        When you have assessed the scene, now you have to make the BOLD call. 911 is the best phone contact but sometimes there are other designated numbers in place so be mindful of that small detail. It is important either way to call someone and alert others of the situation. One large role you will play is being the leader in this situation. The bystander effect occurs when people observe a situation and think someone else will take care of it. This happens for many reasons, but we won’t get into the details. The big takeaway is having other people assist when they can. You can delegate others to go fetch first aid kits, AEDs or even call the appropriate number as you care for the victim.

        Another key point you have to be able to recognize is sometimes calling authorities is not the best idea. A small scrape on your elbow most likely won’t render a trip in an ambulance, but again if at any point a situation is out of your comfort level, make the call. Being trained to recognize CALL first vs CARE first situations is important and we encourage you to become trained in these skills.

         

        1. Care for the Individual

        Caring for someone is our next step. When providing care to anyone in an emergency situation always make sure to use proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). Furthermore, proper PPE can lower the risk for infection and the spread of disease. If we look back to the emergency situations listed above, of course protocol will be different for any situation you are faced with so being properly trained and knowledgeable about each circumstance is imperative.

         

        Here are a few things to keep in mind when you are caring for someone:

         

        Only do what you are trained to do (act within your scope of practice)

        This is really important. When you care for someone, it is noteworthy to provide care that is consistent with your level of training and certification. That means Youtube tutorials are not the best resource when caring for a bleeding emergency. When you administer care consistent with your degree of training you are ensuring you are protecting the victim and protecting yourself.

         

        Provide care until EMS or authorities take over

        Now that you have decided to care, you can’t get cold feet. Be confident in your decision making and stay calm as you provide care. Additionally, you should always stay with the victim until someone else can take over with more training. You should also brief medical personnel of what care you have performed and any information about the victim: allergies, head to toe check assessments, any interviewing that has taken place.

         

        Be prepared for the situation to change

        While you are caring for someone you should continuously monitor them. If a person is experiencing a heart attack, their situation could get worse if they slip into Sudden Cardiac Arrest. You need to be able to roll with the emergency at hand and have predictive judgment. Make note of their signs and symptoms as time passes. A good example could be someone experiencing a stroke.

         

        Example notes:

        1. At 1:30 pm the victim experienced pain in their left shoulder
        2. At 1:35 pm the victims facial muscles began to droop on the left side
        3. At 1:40 pm the victim could not produce speech

         

        And the notes could continue…

        Relay all of this information to the authorities and EMS personnel. It is the best way to help them know where the victim is on a timeline basis.

         

        Take Away:

        Being able to recognize to an emergency is just as important as responding to one. You should always get consent when providing care to an individual and you should never put yourself at risk. Assessing a scene can help decide what plan of attack you will have to help respond and alerting the proper emergency contact should never be forgotten. Lastly, if you do not think you can perform these skills, we encourage you to take a class and become certified. B42L has had numerous cases where trained students have responded to emergency situations. In 2017, a student actually responded to someone suffering Cardiac Arrest on campus. She saved his life. Check the whole story out below:

         

        Slippery Rock University Student Saves The Life of a Fellow Student Suffering From Cardiac Arrest

        https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_iHFivnn-U&t=7

         

        Resources to get trained:

        1. B42L.com
        2. American Red Cross
        3. American Heart Association

         

        Was this helpful? Leave a comment and connect with us on social media or you can visit our website at B42L.com