Be ready for Thanksgiving emergencies
This is the time of year when we look forward sharing moments, memories and meals with our family and take the opportunity to be thankful for all that we have. Unfortunately, this is also at time when home related injuries increase. The Commissioners and Medics of ESD-1 will be ready, as usual, to respond to those emergencies. We would like to let you know there are things you can do to ameliorate emergencies while EMS is on the way to help. Because cooking is a big part of this holiday season, burns are a frequently experienced injury. When a serious burn occurs knowing what to do until EMS arrives can make a great difference in the final outcome of these wounds.
Burns are classified into three categories. First degree burns look like a minor sunburn. The skin is red and very painful. Most of these wounds can be treated by dousing them in large amounts of clean, cool water. There is usually no need for EMS or hospital care of these injuries unless they involve the face or are associated with inhaling hot gasses.
Second degree burns are also very painful and immediately develop blisters. For these injuries, first ensure that the burn source is extinguished. Dial 911 or have another person make the call. Once the environment is safe, pour large amounts of clean water over the wound. Do not restrict the victim’s ability to breathe. If the victim starts to shiver, stop pouring the water and cover them with a clean, light sheet. Never use creams, greases or salves of any kind on any burn. Never wrap the wound. Sometimes it may be necessary to remove burning clothing, but don’t worry too much about this.
Third degree burns are not painful in the center of the burn area. They can appear black and charred or white and crusty. These are serious burns and must be transported to a hospital. Always call 911 for these patients. Your action will be exactly the same as for the second-degree burn.
When you dial 911, tell the dispatcher where the injured person is located. EMS and Fire dispatchers are highly trained and will immediately send the necessary response. They will also continue asking you questions to relay to responding units. This information allows EMS to arrive prepared to handle the emergency. Here are some questions you may be asked: Is the victim an adult or child; breathing, and or conscious? Is there a fire danger? Did the burn occur in an enclosed space or outdoors in the open? Where is the victim burned? You can do a lot to help your loved one in these situations by remaining calm and following the dispatcher’s instructions.
We hope your holiday is a happy, joyful one. But it will be even more relaxed knowing that you are ready to help with emergencies that may occur. On behalf of Emergency Services District One, have a happy Thanksgiving, a merry Christmas and a joyous New Year.
-Keith Hughart, BSN, RN, NRP, CEN
Commissioner, Hays County ESD-1 (EMS)