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Deliberate attacks - how even basic first aid can help mass casualties.

Being a first aider can greater increase the chances of survival before the emergency services arrive on a mass casualty scene.

*Images are taken from a training day and it is not a real life situation*


It's not a nice thought but unfortunately a reality of the world we live in today, deliberate attacks on our communities do happen, have happened and will inevitably happen again.

 

These situations can of course create mass panic, hysteria and mental scarring that can live with us for the rest of our lives. However, with the immediate actions of the general public in a first aid capacity, this could be vital to saving as many lives as possible. It is also vital in proving to those responsible that humanity is something that will never cease to exist and we will all come together and help one another even in the face of disaster. Showing our resilience and capabilities makes us stronger as a person, community and country. 


A way that we can do this together is to have as many people as possible have a basic knowledge of first aid training. Being a first aider is an invaluable skill and there are many courses available to suit your required level from basic first aid all the way up to advanced and First Responder training courses. No matter your level of knowledge on how to assist a casualty, even the most simple act of first aid, if done quickly enough, can save a life.


Of course it is a lot to ask of people to put aside their own fears to help but if it is safe to do so and you feel able, having a basic knowledge of first aid is an invaluable skill. 


A UK charity called Citizen Aid is empowering the general public to help save lives by offering a free app and a pocket guide to take you through some simple steps of basic first aid.  These visual aids reduce the anxiety from the pressure of making a difficult decision when faced with a frightening situation.


With the recent publication of the Manchester bombing review many fingers have been pointed, rightly or wrongly, but the fact is, it’s a scary situation and often people feel like there was nothing they could have done to help. If the response time of the emergency services is delayed, for whatever reason, having as many trained first aiders in the public will help this kind of situation and lives will be saved.


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