First Aid for the Family

For your family and loved ones, here are some great tips to encourage proper first aid care! Whether it’s bruises, scrapes, or burns, below are some essential but sometimes overlooked first aid tips for families:

• Scrapes & Cuts: Clean First, Bandage Later -

  • Before applying a bandage, wash the wound gently with soap and water to prevent infection. Apply pressure with clean gauze to stop bleeding, then cover with a bandage. 

• Sprains & Strains: R.I.C.E. Method –

  • Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Repeat this process, icing for 15 minutes at least 4 times a day, compressing with wraps or bandages, and elevating the injury above the heart.

• Burns: Cool with Running Water -

  • For minor or 1^st degree burns, run cool water over the area for 10–20 minutes.

• Bee Stings: Remove the Stinger & Ice –

  • For bee stings it’s important to remove the stinger first to avoid more venom, do so with a credit card. Then clean the sting with soap and water before applying ice to reduce pain and swelling.

• Heat Exhaustion: Stop, Hydrate, and Cool Down –

  • Treat heat exhaustion by reducing any unnecessary movement, removing excess clothing, hydrating, and cooling down with water or ice packs.  

Action Takeaway: Create or buy a family first aid kit with child-safe supplies and include a printed list of emergency contacts and any family allergies or medications. Keep one in your car, one at home, and a photo of it on your phone.