It is important in preparing for any emergency to know how to give first aid.  If medical help is not immediately available, use the First Aid Booklet in your First Aid Kit (available from the Red Cross or at stores).  If you do not have a First Aid Booklet, the information below may be helpful.

If you encounter someone who is injured, apply these emergency Check-Call-Care action steps:

Check the scene to make sure it is safe for you to approach.  Be alert for fallen power lines. Then check the victim for unconsciousness and life-threatening conditions.  Someone who has a life-threatening condition, such as not breathing or severe bleeding, requires immediate care by trained responders and may require treatment by medical professionals.

                    Call out for help.

                    Care for someone who is hurt.

Control Bleeding.  Cover the wound with a dressing, and press firmly against the wound (direct pressure).  Elevate the injured area above the level of the heart if you do not suspect that the victim has a broken bone.  Cover the dressing with a roller bandage.  If the bleeding does not stop, apply additional dressings and bandages, and use a pressure point to squeeze the artery against the bone.  Provide care for shock.

Care for Shock. Keep the victim from getting chilled or overheated.  Elevate the legs about 12 inches (if broken bones are not suspected).  Do not give food or drink to the victim.