What if the fire scene faints?

Fire-related injuries can lead to a life-threatening condition known as shock. This syndrome is extremely dangerous due to factors such as severe electrical burns, fractures, trauma, intense pain from burns, and heavy bleeding. While some injuries may not be immediately fatal, they can become deadly if not treated promptly due to the serious shocks they cause.

Common symptoms of shock include pale lips and face, cold hands and feet, a weak pulse, rapid breathing, cold sweat, a dull expression, extreme thirst, and even unconsciousness or coma. The extremities may turn blue, the pulse may be difficult to detect, blood pressure drops, and there may be no urine output. To prevent shock and provide first aid, the following steps are recommended:

1. For individuals experiencing severe pain, painkillers should be administered. Acupuncture can also be used to relieve discomfort. Specific points such as Shenmen, the Pillow, Adrenal Gland, and Cortex can be stimulated depending on the injury location.

2. If the injured person is conscious and does not have internal injuries, they can be given small amounts of fluids like ginger soup, rice porridge, hot tea, or light salt water. In winter, keeping warm is important, while in summer, preventing heatstroke is crucial. Wet clothes should be changed promptly, and the injured should be kept lying down with clear airways. If necessary, artificial respiration should be performed. For unconscious individuals, acupressure at points like Zhongwan (CV12), Shixuan (EX-UE11), Neiguan (PC6), and Yongquan (KI1) may help.

3. In fire scenes, it's essential to quickly locate and rescue the injured. Wounds should be properly dressed to reduce bleeding, contamination, and pain. Fractures, joint injuries, and soft tissue damage must be stabilized immediately. All external bleeding should be controlled effectively, and anyone suspected of internal bleeding must be taken to the hospital urgently.

4. After emergency care, the injured should be placed in a safe and stable position to rest. Emotional support and reassurance are vital to ease their anxiety. Once the injured have had a brief rest, they should be transported to a medical facility for further treatment as soon as possible. This article was originally written by China Rescue Equipment Network. Please cite the source when sharing.