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In moments of crisis, understanding how to administer first aid can make all the difference. However, amidst the wealth of information available, it’s easy to get caught up in misconceptions that might do more harm than good. Let’s take a more personal look at some of these myths and get to the truth:

Myth 1: Butter or Toothpaste Soothes Burns

Imagine you’ve burned yourself while cooking. Your first instinct might be to reach for butter or toothpaste, thinking they’ll soothe the pain. But in reality, they can trap heat and bacteria, making the burn worse. Instead, gently rinse the burn with cool water for at least 10 minutes and cover it with a clean bandage.

Myth 2: Tilting the Head Back for Nosebleeds

You’re helping someone with a nosebleed, and you’ve always heard that tilting the head back is the way to go. However, doing so can cause blood to flow down the throat, risking choking. Instead, have them lean slightly forward and pinch their nostrils shut for about 10 minutes while breathing through the mouth.

Myth 3: Rubbing Alcohol Lowers Fever

Your child has a fever, and you’ve heard that rubbing alcohol on their skin can bring it down. But did you know it can actually be absorbed into their bloodstream, leading to poisoning? Stick to fever-reducing medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and make sure they’re resting and drinking plenty of fluids.

Myth 4: Urinating on a Jellyfish Sting

You’re at the beach when someone gets stung by a jellyfish, and you remember hearing that peeing on the sting can help. However, urine can actually make it worse by triggering more venom release. Instead, rinse the area with saltwater and carefully remove any tentacles with tweezers or a gloved hand.

Myth 5: Removing an Impaled Object

Imagine you or someone you know has been injured with something impaled in them. Your first instinct might be to pull it out, but that could cause even more damage and bleeding. Instead, keep the object stabilized and seek immediate medical help.

Myth 6: CPR Guarantees Revival for Unconscious Individuals

You witness someone collapse and immediately start CPR, hoping to revive them. While CPR is crucial, it’s not a guarantee. Its purpose is to keep blood flowing until professional help arrives. Stay calm, perform CPR, and call for emergency assistance.

Myth 7: Tilting the Head Back During a Seizure

If you’re with someone experiencing a seizure, your instinct might be to try to hold them still or tilt their head back. But this can lead to injuries. Instead, create a safe space, cushion their head, and time the seizure. If it lasts longer than five minutes or repeats, seek medical help.

Separating fact from fiction in first aid practices is essential for keeping ourselves and others safe during emergencies. By debunking these myths and focusing on evidence-based approaches, we can better prepare ourselves to handle crises and potentially save lives. Always remember, when in doubt, seek professional medical assistance promptly.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO (Int.)

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As the sun beats down, it brings not just warmth, but also the risk of heat-related ailments like heat exhaustion. Whether you’re out enjoying a picnic, toiling under the sun’s rays, or simply going about your daily routine, understanding heat exhaustion is crucial for safeguarding your well-being. Join us as we explore the human side of heat exhaustion, its symptoms, preventive measures, and treatment options.

Understanding the Experience:

Imagine yourself on a scorching summer day, feeling the sun’s relentless heat bearing down on you. This is the environment where heat exhaustion thrives. It occurs when your body, overwhelmed by high temperatures and insufficient hydration, struggles to maintain its cool. This condition often serves as a warning sign, indicating that your body is at risk of more severe heat-related illnesses like heatstroke.

Recognizing the Signs:

In the midst of a heat wave, your body may send out distress signals, urging you to take action. These signals manifest as:

1. Excessive Sweating: Your body’s attempt to cool down through profuse sweating.

2. Fatigue: Despite having rested adequately, you feel drained and weak.

3. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: The world seems to spin as you struggle to maintain your balance.

4. Nausea or Vomiting: Your stomach rebels against the heat, causing discomfort or vomiting.

5. Headaches: A persistent ache weighs down on your temples, a common companion of heat exhaustion.

6. Muscle Cramps: Painful spasms grip your muscles, particularly in your legs or abdomen.

7. Pale, Clammy Skin: Your skin takes on an unnaturally pallid hue, feeling cool and clammy to the touch.

8. Rapid Heartbeat: Your heart races, attempting to circulate blood and cool your overheated body.

Nurturing Your Well-being:

Protecting yourself from heat exhaustion involves nurturing your body’s needs and respecting its limits. Here are some ways to care for yourself:

1. Stay Hydrated: Quench your body’s thirst with ample water, especially during outdoor activities.

2. Respect the Heat: Limit your exposure to extreme temperatures, particularly during the hottest parts of the day.

3. Dress Wisely: Choose lightweight, breathable attire that allows sweat to evaporate freely.

4. Take Breaks: Honor your body’s signals by resting in shaded or air-conditioned areas during outdoor endeavors.

5. Shield Your Skin: Apply sunscreen to shield yourself from harmful UV rays, which can exacerbate heat-related issues.

6. Listen to Your Body: Tune in to your body’s cues and take breaks when fatigue or overheating sets in.

7. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the heat index and adjust your activities accordingly to minimize risk.

Responding with Compassion:

If you or someone you know shows signs of heat exhaustion, respond with care and urgency. Here’s how you can help:

1. Provide Relief: Move the affected individual to a cooler environment, whether it’s a shaded area or air-conditioned space.

2. Offer Hydration: Replenish lost fluids and electrolytes by offering cool water or sports drinks.

3. Encourage Rest: Allow the person to rest comfortably, elevating their legs to aid circulation.

4. Cooling Measures: Ease discomfort by applying cool, damp cloths to their skin or facilitating a cool bath.

5. Stay Vigilant: Monitor their symptoms closely, and if symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical assistance promptly.

Heat exhaustion is a tangible reminder of the delicate balance between our bodies and the environment. By acknowledging its presence, respecting its warnings, and responding with compassion, we can navigate through the sweltering heat with greater resilience and well-being. Stay cool, stay hydrated, and above all, stay mindful of your body’s needs.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President -Rashtriya Lifesaving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO into.

In moments of crisis, acting swiftly and thoughtfully can be a game-changer. If you ever find yourself faced with the need to rescue a pregnant woman caught in the flow of water, it becomes a human imperative to remain composed and approach the situation methodically. Our goal is to ensure the well-being of both the expecting mother and her unborn child.

1.⁠ Assessing the Scene:

Before leaping into action, take a moment to observe your surroundings. Gauge the speed and depth of the water, identify potential dangers, and consider the unique medical needs of a pregnant woman. A quick but thorough assessment sets the stage for a well-informed response.

2.⁠ ⁠Call for Support:

Reach out to emergency services promptly for professional aid. Clearly communicate the details of the situation, sharing accurate information about the location, the woman’s condition, and any possible risks. While awaiting help, offer comforting words to the woman, assuring her that assistance is en route.

3.⁠ ⁠Prioritize Your Safety:

Before embarking on a rescue mission, prioritize your own safety. Refrain from entering swiftly moving water without proper training and assistance. If feasible, await the arrival of professional rescuers. Your safety is pivotal in providing effective support.

4.⁠ ⁠Reach Out or Throw, but Don’t Enter:

If conditions allow, extend a helping hand to the pregnant woman using an elongated object like a stick, pole, or rope. Maintain a safe distance and encourage her to grasp the object. If direct contact isn’t viable, toss a flotation device or any buoyant item to help keep her afloat until professional assistance arrives.

5.⁠ ⁠Advocate for Controlled Floating:

If the woman is conscious and the water isn’t tumultuous, suggest that she lie on her back and float with the current. This technique conserves energy and minimizes the risk of injury until rescuers can reach her.

6.⁠ ⁠Maintain Open Communication:

Keep a continuous line of communication with the woman to provide reassurance and keep her informed. Ensure she is aware that help is on the way. If she is distressed, engage her in conversation to prevent panic.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.

Entering the realm of drowning incidents, especially involving infants, can evoke profound fear. Swift, effective responses become the lifeline, ensuring the best possible outcome. In this blog, we’ll journey through the essential steps of infant resuscitation after drowning, providing parents and caregivers with the knowledge to act compassionately in an emergency.

Recognising the Signs:

1. Immediate Action: If you find an infant drowning or submerged in water, respond urgently. Every passing moment is critical in such heart-wrenching situations.

2. Retrieve the Infant: Gently and swiftly bring the infant out of the water, cradling their head and neck with utmost care.

3. Check Responsiveness: Tap their foot or call their name to assess responsiveness. If met with silence, embark on the following steps.

CPR for Infants:

1. Place on a Firm Surface: Lay the infant down on a solid surface, preferably a firm floor, ensuring a safe environment.

2. Open the Airway: Tenderly tilt the infant’s head backward to open the airway, using two fingers to lift the chin gently.

3. Breaths and Compressions: Administer two gentle rescue breaths, covering the infant’s mouth and nose. If the breaths yield no chest rise, reevaluate the airway. If still no response, begin delicate chest compressions.

4. Chest Compressions: Employ two fingers to compress the chest approximately 1.5 inches deep, maintaining a rhythm of 100-120 compressions per minute.

5. Continue CPR: Execute cycles of 30 chest compressions and two rescue breaths until the infant breathes independently, professional help arrives, or physical limitations intervene.

Seeking Emergency Help:

1. Call 108/102 or Emergency Services: While administering CPR, initiate a call for professional help urgently.

2. Stay Calm: Maintain composure to communicate effectively with emergency responders. Offer precise information about the situation and adhere to their instructions.

Preventing Drowning Incidents:

1. Supervision: Always keep a watchful eye on infants around water, whether in a bathtub, pool, or any water source.

2. Swimming Lessons: Enroll infants in age-appropriate swimming lessons to introduce them gently to water safety measures.

3. Childproofing: Secure your home to prevent unsupervised access to water sources.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.

Restoring Hope: Compassionate Measures in Reviving Individuals Post Water Rescue

Embarking on water rescues demands not just skills but the heart to act swiftly, courageously, and with a deep understanding of life-saving techniques. Yet, the story doesn’t conclude once the victim is brought ashore. The moments following a water rescue are pivotal, holding the key to an individual’s survival. In this blog, let’s explore the heartfelt steps of resuscitation after a water rescue, delving into the intricate process of reviving hope when it matters the most.

Swift Assessment of Vital Signs:

As we step onto dry land, the first act is to connect with the person we’ve saved – checking for responsiveness, breathing, and a pulse. In moments of unconsciousness or when breath eludes them, time becomes our most precious ally.

Initiate CPR Immediately:

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) becomes the lifeline in these scenarios. We commence with chest compressions and rescue breaths, ensuring a rhythmic dance that sustains oxygen circulation. Every second becomes a heartbeat in this symphony of life.

Embracing Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs):

AEDs emerge as trusted companions in our resuscitation journey. When available, we embrace these devices promptly. They become storytellers, analyzing the heart’s rhythm and delivering shocks if needed – a potential restoration of a normal heartbeat, a narrative of life renewed.

Positioning with Care:

The person we’ve pulled from the water deserves a gentle embrace of a firm surface. This aids in effective chest compressions. We delicately position their head, ensuring an open airway, a channel for unobstructed breathing – a small gesture, yet monumental in its impact.

Monitor and Adjust:

We become vigilant guardians, constantly reassessing the condition of our saved companion. Signs of improvement guide us to persist in our care. In the absence of response, we reassess, adapting our resuscitation efforts with empathy and determination.

Harmonize with Emergency Services:

In the midst of resuscitation, a call to emergency services becomes a heartfelt plea for collaboration. Our words, clear and concise, convey the urgency of the situation and our location. Professional assistance intertwines with our efforts, creating a tapestry of comprehensive rescue.

Embracing the Chill – Hypothermia Considerations

Water rescues expose our companions to the cold embrace of water. We address hypothermia with tender care – wrapping them in blankets, monitoring body temperature. Each act becomes a shared warmth, a commitment to comfort in the face of adversity.

Post-Resuscitation Care:

 The success of resuscitation marks not an end but a hopeful beginning. As consciousness returns, we become devoted observers. Seeking medical attention, we address underlying issues, ensuring a thorough evaluation – a commitment to sustained recovery.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.

Neck injury : Shedding Light on the Hidden Dangers of Drowning

In the realm of drowning incidents, where the looming danger of asphyxiation takes center stage, there exists an undercover peril that silently prowls beneath the water’s surface – neck injuries. Our neck, a delicate and vital part of our anatomy, becomes vulnerable during such harrowing events, demanding our attention to potential consequences that are often overlooked.

Navigating the Rapids: The Mechanism of Neck Injuries

Neck injuries in drowning scenarios usually emerge from sudden impacts or forces. Picture the chaos of a water emergency – a fall, a collision, or the desperate struggle for survival – all exerting substantial stress on the cervical spine and its surrounding structures. The neck, with its delicate nature, is prone to damage, and the aftermath can be severe.

The Symphony of Movement: Cervical Spine Complications

Our cervical spine, a harmonious ensemble of seven vertebrae in the neck region, orchestrates the support for our head and enables a graceful range of movements. However, when faced with the force of a drowning incident, these vertebrae can suffer fractures, dislocations, or other traumatic injuries. The resulting damage may extend to the spinal cord, introducing neurological complications and potential long-term consequences.

SOS: Prompt Medical Attention is Our Lifeline

Recognizing the signs of a neck injury during or after a drowning incident becomes paramount. Symptoms like pain, difficulty moving the neck, or tingling sensations should act as our distress signals. In such situations, seeking medical attention promptly is our lifeline. Delayed intervention might amplify the severity of the injury and jeopardize the chances of a full recovery.

Life Jackets and Lifeguards: Prevention and Preparedness

While accidents are unpredictable, we can act as guardians by taking preventive measures and being prepared for water-related emergencies. Enforcing safety measures, like donning appropriate flotation devices and providing vigilant supervision, is essential to minimize the potential for accidents.

Empowering the Aquatic Community: Educating the Public

Raising awareness about the risk of neck injuries in drowning incidents becomes a mission of utmost importance. Through community education initiatives, swimming lessons, and the dissemination of safety protocols, we can contribute to a collective effort in preventing water-related accidents. The more informed the public is, the better equipped we become to respond effectively in emergency situations.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr

Navigating the Depths: Safeguarding Against Spinal Injuries in Water Mishaps

In the realm of water incidents, drowning is commonly linked with the peril of suffocation. However, beneath the surface lies an often overlooked peril – the potential for significant spinal injuries. This piece delves into the intricacies of spinal trauma resulting from falls or leaps into the water, underscoring the need for vigilance around water bodies.

The Force and Angle of Entry:

When an individual takes the plunge from a height into the water, the force and angle of entry become pivotal determinants of potential spinal injuries. The impact can lead to fractures or dislocations in the vertebrae, causing immediate harm to the spine. Recognizing the physics of water entry is essential for both swimmers and those tasked with overseeing water activities.

Risk Factors:

Various elements elevate the risk of spinal injuries in drowning incidents. A lack of supervision stands out as a significant contributor, as diligent oversight can thwart reckless behaviors that might result in perilous water entries. Shallow waters present an additional hazard – an individual hitting the bottom is more susceptible to spinal trauma, underscoring the need to gauge depth before diving or jumping.

Prevention Measures:

To alleviate the risk of spinal injuries in drowning incidents, it is imperative to prioritize safety and awareness. Adhering to designated diving zones and heeding warning signs about water depth is crucial. Supervision, particularly for children and novice swimmers, takes precedence. Educating individuals about the potential repercussions of unsafe water entries can foster responsible behavior.

Exercise Caution:

The fundamental message is a simple yet potent one: always exercise caution around bodies of water. Whether you find yourself at a pool, lake, or any aquatic setting, comprehending the risks linked with water entries can significantly diminish the likelihood of spinal injuries during drowning incidents. Staying attuned to your surroundings and following safety guidelines can make a substantial difference in averting accidents.

Written by…

George Makasare

Vice President(Ops – Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India) & Committee Member of Guideline Development Group for WHO Intr.

Abhijeet Bhattarcharya, a dedicated lifesaver and  trainer was faced with a most unenviable situation.  His father was sick with Covid19, Oxygen level were down to 78 and his condition deteriorating.  No ICU beds, no ventilators, no oxygen, no doctors and no was money available to pay for space in a Covid hotel. When I asked him if I could help with some money, he said that he would look after his father himself with the skills, knowledge and expertise he has acquired as a trainer with the Rashtriya Life Saving Society (India). Along with his father, he also began to attend to four aged neighbors with similar symptoms.

Over the next two weeks he put his father on a strict diet, routine of steam inhalation, saline gargle, deep breathing and prayers.  Combined, all these helped and he proudly informed me that his father had recovered and tested “Negative”. The same was the case with his aged neighbors. 

In my opinion, whatever Abhijeet did must have helped but what would have contributed most to his father’s recovery was the fact that he had help and assurance from a doting son.  This made him fight more strongly for his life. On Abhijeet’s part was his confidence as a Master Lifesaving Skills trainer and the belief that he was going to get his father well.

Remember the more lifesavers we have, the more Surakshit Bharat we shall attain.

Author: Retd. Rear Admiral P D Sharma – Founder President RLSS (India)