Ask your local Red Cross chapter, fire or police
department about first-aid and CPR courses.



  • Apply direct pressure. Use latex gloves, plastic wrap or a clean folded cloth to prevent contact with victim's blood.
  • Elevate wounded area above victim's heart, if there is no sign of fracture.
  • If bleeding is severe and continues, apply pressure at a pressure point, if you have training.
  • Do  NOT  apply a tourniquet.

  • Don't move victim -- or ask victim to move -- unless absolutely necessary.
  • Get medical help.
  • If medical help isn't available, splint the fracture, moving it as little as possible.
  • To form a splint, use rigid material (a board, rolled newspapers or magazines, etc.) that extends past the joint on either side of the fracture.
  • Put padding between skin and splint.
  • Tie splint in place with strips of cloth (loose enough to allow circulation).



  • Immerse burn in cool water until burned area feels cool.
  • Cover burn with a dry, sterile dressing.
  • Never put butter or grease on a burn.
  • Do not break blisters.
  • Do not attempt to remove anything sticking to a burn.
  • Do not apply ointment to any burn that will require medical treatment.

(Symptoms include cold, clammy skin; faint, rapid pulse; weakness; nausea.)
  • Treat the cause of the shock -- blood loss, burn, etc.
  • Keep victim lying down. Place unconscious victim on side to allow drainage of fluids.
  • Don't move victim if you suspect neck or spine injury, unless absolutely necessary.
  • Cover only enough to maintain body heat.
  • Get medical help immediately.
These tips are NOT a substitute for qualified medical care. In an emergency, get medical help as soon as possible.