Let the sun shine in--safely!

It's summer. The days are warm and long, filled with seemingly endless hours of bright sunshine. You just can't resist the urge to lie back, catch a few rays and tan your winter weary skin.

But, as science has been warning us for a number of years, there are perils to exposure to excessive sunlight, the kind that can cause injury and pain. Leonia Volunteer Ambulance Corps points out that you can enjoy the sun without risk if you don't overdo it.

People with fair skin are most susceptible to radiation burns--caused by energy radiating from a source like the sun or tanning lamp. But no matter the skin type, the harmful effects of radiation burns can be sustained by anyone.

Prevention is the best solution. Don't stay outdoors too long and never leave tender skin exposed for more than a few minutes at a time. Wear a light, sun repellent cover over bathing suits or other light clothing. Always keep your head and eyes protected.

First Aid for sunburn

Sunburns can be very serious. Ranging from mild discomfort to severe burning over a large portion of the body, a bad sunburn can also be further complicated by heatstroke. For minor sunburn, give first aid as follows:

1.       Check the casualty thoroughly to determine the extent and severity of the burn.

2.       Get out of the sun immediately.

3.       Cover the burn with a wet towel or gently sponge the area with cool water to relieve pain.

4.       Pat the skin dry and apply medicated sunburn ointment or lotion. Apply according to directions on the package and watch for warning signs of an allergic reaction.

5.       Protect burnt areas from further exposure to the sun.

6.       Don't break any blisters--doing so may promote infection. If large areas of the skin begin to blister, seek medical help.

7.       If the casualty begins to vomit or develops a fever, give first aid for heatstroke and get medical help.

First Aid for heatstroke

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition where the body's temperature rises far above normal. The body's temperature control mechanism fails, sweating may stop and the body temperature rises rapidly. When you notice rapid pulse, noisy breathing, convulsions or vomiting and hot, flushed skin, give first aid for heatstroke.

1.       Check the casualty for symptoms of heatstroke. Lowering the body temperature is the most urgent first aid for heatstroke.

2.       Move the casualty to a cool, shaded place or indoors if possible. Call for medical help.

3.       Cool the casualty by removing clothing, covering with a wet sheet, immersing in cool water or sponging with cool water, especially in the armpits, neck and groin areas.

4.       When the body feels cool to the touch, cover the casualty with a dry sheet. Put the conscious casualty into the shock position and the unconscious casualty into the recovery position. If temperature begins to rise again, repeat step three.

5.       Continue to monitor the casualty until medical help is available.

Don't let water mishaps sink you

Warm summer weather means terrific times at the beach or lake. From swimming and snorkeling to a wide variety of watercraft activities, summer in New Jersey is ideal for getting the most from the outdoors.

And while fun and sun are a great combination, never forget that the potential for mishap goes right along with you. Any activity that involves water has the hidden hazard of drowning. Leonia Volunteer Ambulance Corps says you can reduce the risk of catastrophe by following this safety checklist.

·         Take a "buddy". Never go swimming or out on a lake alone. Make sure someone on shore knows where you're going and when to expect you back.

·         Learn to swim. Everyone can learn to swim--it's natural! Take lessons from a certified instructor.

·         Know your limits. Don't try to prove a point around water. Respect your limits and don't show off. You may be testing more than your ability to perform a trick.

·         Swim safely. Never swim in an area frequented by motorized watercraft. Make sure you can be seen and swim along the shore rather than away from it.

·         Learn to 'drownproof'. Even strong swimmers can tire or suffer a cramp. Knowing how to rest while afloat may save your life.

·         Watch the weather. Never swim or enter the water in an electrical storm. Lightening striking the water can have deadly consequences.

·         Use watercraft wisely. Before operating any watercraft, make sure you stay within its weight capacity and loading requirements. Be sure of sound mechanical condition and that all lifesaving and rescue equipment is on board and are in good working order.

·         Rescue safely. Should you need to rescue someone from deep water, be sure you know how. Do not go into the water to rescue unless you are proficient in rescue techniques.

·         Bring a first aid kit. A day of water fun can be the cause of sunburn, minor cuts or scrapes. Always be prepared with a quality first aid kit.

By learning life-saving techniques like artificial respiration and CPR, you can be ready for any emergency.

Boater checklist: Don't leave shore without it

There's nothing quite like a day on the open water. The fresh breeze, sunshine and sparkling water make the perfect combination.

Don't let disaster darken your outing. Leonia Volunteer Ambulance Corps says take precautions to avoid tragedy. Here is a boater checklist. Keep it handy and refer to it before you leave shore every time.

1.       Does your boat meet safety regulations?

2.       Is your boat seaworthy and capable of handling the prevailing water conditions?

3.       Do you have an approved lifejacket for every member of your party?

4.       Do you have safety flares and a waterproof lighter?

5.       Do you have two buoyant towlines?

6.       Do you have an anchor?

7.       Do you have a sound-emitting device like a horn or whistle?

8.       Do you have paddles or oars?

9.       Do you have tools to perform minor mechanical repairs?

10.   Do you have a first aid kit?

11.   Do you have a fire extinguisher?

12.   Do you have sufficient fuel?

13.   Have you checked for fuel system leaks or fumes?

14.   Do you have water and nourishment?

15.   Do you have protection from the elements--sun, wind or rain?

No matter what you plan to do on the water, being prepared is essential for safety.

Boating is nothing to fool with

Many people think operating a boat is merely knowing how to run the motor and steer. That's far from the case. Boating requires know-how and following safety rules.

1.       If possible, take a companion on every outing on the water. If you have to go alone, make sure someone on shore knows where you're going and when to expect you to return.

2.       If you can't swim, learn! Water need not pose a threat if you are trained in swimming, drownproofing and life-saving techniques.

3.       Wear a lifejacket at all times. You never know when you might fall overboard. A lifejacket can save your life, especially if you are rendered unconscious or are injured in the fall.

4.       Know the waterway. If possible, equip yourself with charts and a depth finder.

5.       Watch for hazards along the way--you never know what will float into your path.

6.       Keep an eye on the weather. Be prepared for storms and be able to seek shelter from the elements.

7.       Don't overload your boat and never stand in a small boat.

8.       Avoid the use of alcohol, which can impair judgement.

9.       Always carry a first aid kit and a full array of safety equipment.

Should your boat capsize or if you fall overboard, don't panic. Never attempt to swim to shore unless you are positive you can easily make it. Hang on to the boat and wait for help. If you are in the water for an extended period, be wary of the signs of hypothermia, which can be present even in warm water conditions. As the body cools it becomes susceptible to shivering, slurred speech, and drowsiness--all warning signs of hypothermia.

The condition is severe when shivering stops. Unconsciousness and stopped breathing could follow. This is a dangerous, life-threatening condition that requires immediate first aid.

Here's what to do when a hypothermic casualty is in the water:

·         Tell the casualty not to take off any clothing--clothing helps keep heat in.

·         Tell the casualty to move as little as possible--moving around causes more heat loss.

·         When removing the casualty from the water, keep them horizontal and handle them gently as rough movement could upset heart rhythm.

Knowing what to do in an emergency is your best defense against further injury and suffering.

Artificial respiration--you can save a life

Too often after a tragedy, witnesses confess "if I'd only known what to do". Unfortunately, you can't buy first aid security when you need it. You have to plan in advance.

Training in life-saving skills like artificial respiration (AR) can make the difference between tragedy and recovery. If it were up to you, would you know what to do?

Learning how to perform techniques such as AR requires training. The cause of the breathing problem, size of the casualty, age and physical circumstances all come into play. There isn't just one way to perform these techniques and you can learn them all with only a few hours of training.

As you breathe, the air you exhale contains enough oxygen to keep a non-breathing person alive. Artificial respiration involves blowing this air into the casualty's lungs to deliver oxygen to the non-breathing person. The number of times you blow in one minute is called the rate--AR has to be given at the proper rate to make sure the casualty is getting enough oxygen.

·         Mouth to Mouth AR: This is the most common method. The first aider pinches the casualty's nose and blows air into the mouth.

·         Mouth to Nose AR: This method is used when the mouth is not appropriate. Hold the casualty's mouth closed and blow air into the nose.

·         Mouth to Mouth and Nose AR: For infants and small children, an adult can easily cover both the mouth and nose. This is appropriate though the first aider must reduce air volume to suit the size of the lung of the casualty.

·         Mouth to Stoma AR--This technique is for a casualty who breathes through a hole in the neck called a stoma (as the result of a laryngectomy).

You can give artificial respiration in nearly any position but it is best to place the casualty on their back on a firm, flat surface. You can continue to give AR for a long period of time and even while a casualty is being moved. Make sure blood and other fluids are prevented from draining into the throat of the casualty.

Before starting AR, always survey the scene to ensure no threat to yourself. For example, if a person has stopped breathing due to ingestion of a chemical, you may come into contact with residue on the mouth, which could affect your health.

It takes practice, patience and technique to perform AR successfully.

Insect bites can have a deadly sting!

There's nothing quite like the great outdoors. Fresh air, sunshine and, regrettably, insects! Yes, no matter whether you plan a day at the beach, a quiet camping retreat or just a stroll outside, chances are you won't go far without meeting some form of insect. You really can't avoid it--they're everywhere!

For most of us, insect bites or stings are annoying but not severe. For others, an allergic reaction can follow which could become life-threatening.  Leonia Volunteer Ambulance Corps says it's wise to know what to do should an insect bite or sting you.

First Aid for an insect bite or sting

1.       Examine the sting site closely, looking for the stinger that may be still in the skin.

2.       If a stinger is visible and accessible, attempt to remove it by carefully scraping it and the attached poison sac from the skin. Don't use tweezers, fingers or anything that might squeeze more poison into the body.

3.       To reduce the irritation at the site of the sting, apply rubbing alcohol, a weak ammonia solution or a paste of baking soda and water. Ice can also be used. Never use alcohol or ammonia near the eyes.

4.       If the sting is in the mouth, give the person a mouthwash of one teaspoonful of baking soda in a glass of water, or a piece of ice to suck on. Monitor the casualty for swelling or difficulty breathing. If symptoms occur, get medical help.

Signs of an allergic reaction to insect bite or sting

1.       General itching, rash developing at site and over body.

2.       A bump on the skin may form, that may be white, pink, reddish or blotchy.

3.       The casualty may experience generalized swelling, especially of the airway.

4.       Weakness and headache.

5.       Fever.

6.       Breathing difficulties may be become severe - if this happens get medical help immediately.

7.       The casualty may express anxiety.

8.       Abdominal cramps and vomiting.

Knowing what to do in an emergency is your best defense against further injury and suffering. 

Snakebite can kill you, partner

You're deep in the woods and you stop to rest against a broken tree. You lay back to look at the sky and without warning, a sharp pain erupts in your leg.

You've just been bitten by a snake. This is no cowboy movie. You're in serious trouble. What do you do? Leonia VAC advises this is not the time to act like John Wayne and try to suck out any venom that may be entering your body at the bite.

First Aid for snakebite

1.       Assess the area. Make sure there's no danger of another bite. Most snakes will be within 10 meters of where the bite took place. Be careful.

2.       Assess the bite area and vital signs of the casualty.

3.       Place the casualty at rest and keep the affected limb below heart level, if possible. This will slow the spreading of venom.

4.       Flush the bite with soapy water, if available, but do not apply ice or cold compresses as they could cause more damage.

5.       Immobilize the limb as you would for a fracture.

6.       Get medical attention quickly.

7.       Do not let a snakebite casualty walk if there is any other method of transportation to medical help.

8.       Do not give the casualty alcoholic beverages.

9.       If the snake is killed, bring it to medical help for identification. Do not touch the snake directly and avoid the head, as a dead snake may still have bite reflex.  

How you react in an emergency could be the difference between life and death.

Treat campfires with respect

Outdoor enthusiasts love the sound of a crackling campfire. It lights the night and provides heat for warmth and cooking. It's the staple ingredient of nearly every camping experience. And it can be one of the most dangerous, too.

·         Pick a safe location for the fire. Don't build it too close to trees, brush, sleeping or eating areas. Find a spot where it can be sheltered from wind.

·         Never use chemicals such as gasoline, solvents or other volatile fuels to start a campfire.

·         Keep small hands away from flames.

·         Don't build a fire too large to handle.

·         Always monitor a campfire. Never light a fire and ignore it.

·         Find a suitable tool for working with the fire. A green tree branch will make an acceptable "poker" and will burn less quickly than a dead twig.

·         Always keep water and loose dirt on hand to douse a fire.

·         Never leave a fire unattended overnight or if you leave the area. Make sure it is out by dousing it with water and spreading the ashes, combined with loose soil or sand.  

First Aid for burns

Should you venture too close to the fire, you're likely to get burned. Burns are measured by degrees of severity. A first-degree burn is superficial damage to the top layer of skin only. A second-degree burn goes deeper and damages both layers of skin, but not tissue beneath. The most serious, third degree burns, cause damage to both layers of skin and the tissue under.

Burns can be serious injuries and require immediate first aid attention. Depending on the severity of the burn, various forms of first aid may be required, followed by immediate medical help. For minor burns, basic first aid may be sufficient.

What to do for a burn

1.       Assess the scene and make sure it is safe from further incident.

2.       Cool the burn right away. Immerse it in cool water if possible. Otherwise, pour cool water on the area and cover it with a clean, wet cloth.

3.       Loosen or remove anything on the burned area that is tight, but not stuck to the wound. This includes jewelry and tight clothing. Do this quickly before the injury swells.

4.       Give ongoing casualty care, including arranging for medical help, first aid for shock and monitoring vital signs.

When pain has lessened, loosely cover the burn with a clean, lint-free dressing. If the area is large, use a sheet. Secure the dressing with tape, making sure there is no tape on the burned area. Follow these precautions for all burns:

·         Do not breathe on, cough over or touch the burned area.

·         Do no break blisters.

·         Do not remove clothing that is stuck to the burned area.

·         Do not use butter, lotions or oily dressings on a burn.

·         Do not cover a burn with cotton wool or other fluffy material.

·         Do not use adhesive dressings.

·         Cool the burned area but not the casualty. Ensure the casualty is warm and calm as possible.

Don't fish for trouble

Fishing is popular summer pastime for people of all ages. There's nothing like a fresh catch to spice up a camping meal. Unfortunately, some people get hooked on more than just the sport. A careless cast can easily end up lodged anywhere but where it was intended.

Like most outdoor activities, fishing can pose a threat to health, especially if care, caution and safety are not priorities. Leonia VAC suggests you make safety your prime concern for your outing.

First Aid for an embedded fishhook

1.       Wash your hands to reduce risk of infection.

2.       Expose the injured area and inspect the wound, without touching it.

3.       Gently place clean dressings around the object.

4.       Place bulky dressings around the object to keep it from moving. This will apply pressure to the wound but not the object.

5.       Secure the bulky dressings in place with a narrow bandage, taking extra care to ensure that pressure is not exerted on the embedded object.

6.       Elevate the injured part, if injuries permit. Check circulation below the injury before and after bandaging. If it is impaired but wasn't before bandaging, loosen the bandage slightly to restore circulation.

7.       Get medical help to remove the object. Do not attempt this yourself as you may cause further damage.

Knowing what to do in an emergency is your best defense.