Knowing what to do if an accident happens can be extremely important. In a serious accident or other emergency, prompt action could save your child's life. And the most urgent need is for someone who can give effective first aid treatment.
This could be you, if you were trained in first aid techniques. but even if it is not possible for you to attend a full training course, try to join in the SAVE A BABY'S LIFE programme being run throughout the country by the Royal Life Saving Society UK.
All it takes is one two-hour session with highly skilled volunteers. It is a learning by seeing process, where vital lifesaving techniques are demonstrated on life size dolls designed to react like real babies. Ask your health visitor for advice about local sessions, or for help in organising one. For further information and local contacts send a s.a.e. to:
Royal Life Saving Society UK
River House
High Street
Broom
Warwickshire
BSO 4HN
Tel: 01789 773994
Always keep a note of essential telephone numbers in a convenient place; and make sure that everyone who looks after your baby knows where to find it. Include numbers of your doctor and of a friend or neighbour who can be contacted quickly and the numbers and addresses of hospitals with Accident & Emergency departments, in case you need to take your child to hospital.
If you think your child may have severe injuries or a serious illness, dial 999 for an ambulance or take the child to a hospital A&E department. However, there are times when the most urgent need is for immediate first aid, as in the case of severe bleeding, choking and breathing stoppage.
Try to stay calm and think clearly. Reassure your child if conscious. Don't give anything by mouth. Don't move more than necessary. Make your child comfortable but not too warm. If there is not time to call for medical help before starting first aid treatment, call as soon as possible.
Inquire at your library or town hall about classes provided by St John Ambulance, British Red Cross Society or St Andrew's Ambulance Association (Scotland) if you are interested in first aid courses.
The new revised and updated edition of the First Aid Manual (produced jointly by these associations) is available from local branches and booksellers. This book is published by Dorling Kindersley Limited which has two additional guides available, Pocket First Aid and First Aid for children fast.
