• Would you know what to do?
  • Could you remain calm and reassuring?
  • Would you know where to get help?
  • Do you know where the First Aid Kit, AED (Automated External Defibrillator) or Bleed Control Kit is kept?
  • Would you know how to use any of the above?

If the answer is no, then oh dear, we need to put that right!

So many people wait until an accident happens before they even look at a first aid kit. Why would that be?

I just don’t want the responsibility – you could save someone’s life, that’s not scary that’s fantastic

I’m unsure how to access an AED – ring 999 they will tell you where your nearest one is and also the code to access it – simples!

Only professionals can use an AED, can’t they? – No! We all can.

Isn’t using an AED complicated? – Just follow the automated instructions and look at the pictures, the 999 controller will speak you through it too.

I wouldn’t know where to put my hands for CPR? – On the centre of the chest, armpit to armpit. Yes, we are all built differently but that is a pretty good standard to go by – you can’t really go wrong!

I can’t remember the songs to sing when doing chest compressions – Ironically Staying Alive is the best tempo, but can you count and sing? We need to give 30 compressions and 5-6 cms deep and 100-120 per minute followed by 2 breaths.

Yuk, blood and stuff, not for me! – Use your Personal Protective Equipment; the clue is in the name.

We aren’t allowed to remove splinters – yes you are! As long as it’s not from an eye, a joint or is embedded. However, check your company policy they may have a different opinion!

There are many First Aid Courses available that can put your fears at rest! One-day courses cover the essentials of basic emergency and lifesaving skills. Three-day courses cover far more than the basic lifesaving skills, such as anaphylaxis, hypoglycaemia, and spinal and head injuries. There are courses for Paediatric First Aid, First Aid Refreshers and First Aid Requalification courses.

Be prepared for that emergency and take the appropriate First Aid course for you.

You never know, you could be a lifesaver!

Visit our website www.tlct.co.uk or call 0114 3570 182 for further information.