First Aid at an Accident

The basic first aid knowledge that will help you if you come across an accident and in your theory test is as follows:

To stop bleeding without the aid of a bandage apply pressure to the wound and, if possible, raise it.

An accident victim has a burn. You should try and cool it, with clean, cool, non-toxic liquid, for at least 10 minutes. If anything is stuck to the burn do not remove it.

You find an unconscious casualty. You should check their breathing for at least 10 seconds. Check for chest movements and place your cheek next to their mouth and nose and try and feel/hear air move.

If the casualty is breathing you should still check that their airway is clear.

If a casualty isn’t breathing then chest compression should be given at a rate of 100 per minute. The correct depth to press is 4 to 5 centimetres.

When giving mouth to mouth resuscitation to a child you must breath into their mouth gently.

A person suffering from shock may be sweating and have pale grey skin.

An unconscious motorcyclist must only be moved if absolutely necessary, as moving them could worsen any injuries. Do not remove their helmet. Seek medical assistance straight away.

Any casualty with suspected back injuries should not be moved.