First Aid Essentials – Basic Tips Everyone Needs to Know

Accidents can happen anywhere—at home, work, or on the go. Whether it’s a cut, a burn, or someone collapsing, knowing basic first aid can be the difference between panic and action. You don’t need to be a paramedic to save a life—you just need the essentials. Let’s go over simple, life-saving first aid tips that everyone should have in their back pocket.

Kit

First things first: build a solid first aid kit. You don’t need anything fancy, just the basics to cover most everyday injuries.

What to include:

Store it in an easy-to-reach spot and check it regularly to restock expired items.

Cuts

Small cuts and scrapes are common—but if not treated properly, they can become infected.

Here’s what to do:

1. Wash your hands
2. Clean the wound with water (not alcohol—it can sting and damage tissue)
3. Apply an antiseptic
4. Cover with a sterile bandage
5. Change the dressing daily or if it gets wet or dirty

Watch for signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus.

Burns

Burns come in degrees—from mild to severe. Quick action can ease pain and reduce damage.

For minor burns:

• Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for 10–15 minutes
• Apply aloe vera or burn ointment
• Cover with a clean, loose bandage
• Avoid popping blisters

Seek help if:

• The burn is larger than 3 inches
• It’s on the face, hands, feet, or genitals
• The person is in extreme pain or showing signs of shock

Choking

Choking can be scary—but knowing what to do could save a life.

If the person can cough or talk:

• Encourage them to keep coughing

If they can’t breathe or make a sound:

1. Stand behind them
2. Wrap your arms around their waist
3. Make a fist just above their belly button
4. Thrust inward and upward (the Heimlich maneuver)
5. Repeat until the object is dislodged or they become unconscious

If they pass out, start CPR and call emergency services immediately.

CPR

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is critical when someone’s heart has stopped. Even basic knowledge can double their chances of survival.

Hands-only CPR steps:

1. Call 911
2. Place hands in the center of the chest
3. Push hard and fast (100–120 compressions per minute)
4. Don’t stop until help arrives or someone takes over

Not sure about mouth-to-mouth? Chest compressions alone are still very effective.

Bleeding

Heavy bleeding can be life-threatening. Quick response is key.

Steps to control bleeding:

• Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth or bandage
• Don’t remove the cloth if it soaks through—add more layers
• Keep the injured part raised above heart level
• Call for medical help if it doesn’t stop in 10 minutes

If blood is spurting, it could be an arterial bleed—call 911 immediately.

Recovery

After providing first aid, stay calm and supportive. Monitor the person’s condition and be ready to give details to emergency responders.

Helpful tips:

• Keep the person warm and still
• Talk to them—reassure and comfort
• Note the time (it can help paramedics)
• Avoid giving food or drink unless instructed by a professional

Being prepared means staying in control when it matters most.

You don’t need a medical degree to save a life—just a little knowledge, a calm mindset, and the willingness to help. Whether it’s a scrape or a serious emergency, basic first aid skills can give someone a second chance. So build that kit, learn the moves, and be someone’s hero when they least expect it.

FAQs