First Aid

What is First Aid?

First aid is the immediate care given to someone who is injured or suddenly unwell, before professional medical help is available. First aid aims to preserve life, prevent the injury or illness from getting worse, and promote recovery. Having the right first aid supplies allows you to treat minor cuts, burns, blisters, and sprains quickly and safely.

Why First Aid matters

Having a well-stocked first aid kit at home, work, or when travelling ensures you’re prepared to treat minor injuries promptly. Quick first aid can:

• Stop bleeding
• Reduce the risk of infection
• Relieve pain and swelling
• Speed up healing
• Prevent minor injuries from becoming serious

Common First Aid situations

First aid supplies can help you handle:

• Cuts & grazes – often caused by falls or accidents; cleaning and covering the wound reduces infection risk.
• Burns & scalds – from hot liquids or surfaces; cooling the burn and applying dressings can minimise damage.
• Blisters – from friction (e.g., shoes); covering with sterile dressings can protect and aid healing.
• Sprains & strains – from sports or sudden movements; cold packs and compression bandages can reduce pain and swelling.

Essential First Aid supplies

A complete first aid kit should include:

• Antiseptic wipes or solution
• Sterile dressings and plasters
• Bandages and adhesive tape
• Burn gels or dressings
• Blister plasters
• Scissors and tweezers
• Disposable gloves
• Cold packs
• Pain relief medicines (e.g., Paracetamol)

When to seek medical help

Contact your GP or visit A&E if:

• A wound is deep, won’t stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection (e.g., redness, pus, fever).
• A burn is larger than a 50p coin, deep, or on the face, hands, feet, or genitals.
• You experience severe pain, loss of movement, or suspected broken bones.
• A head injury causes confusion, drowsiness, or vomiting.