Could you save a life this summer?

Being out of your usual routine may mean your family and friends are more at risk from an accident or injury

- DR PHILIPPA KAYE

Heading away, planning a staycation, or just having a day or two off from work? Summer is a time when many of us will try a new activity, or the kids will play in the playground, in a pool, on bikes, or on skateboards - all of which mean that there may be some injuries!

Everybody should know what to do in an emergency - you could save a life. Firstly, always check the area for danger, then call out for help and, if necessary, dial 999 so that help is on the way. Here's what to do if the worst happens...

BLEEDING

If you have disposable gloves, put them on. If something is in Every the wound, don't pull it out as it should what may be helping to slow down the bleeding, but also don't push down or put pressure on it. Instead, press down firmly on either side of the object, preferably with a clean dressing. If there's nothing in the wound, apply pressure to the wound, using a clean dressing if possible. If you notice that the bleeding soaks through the dressing, apply another on top and keep applying pressure.

BREATHING BUT body UNCONSCIOUS

Place in the recovery position. If the person is on their back, to do' kneel by their side and move the arm nearest to you up in a right angle with the palm facing up. Take the other hand and bring it up and over so the back of their hand rests on the cheek which is closest to you. Hold the hand and use your other hand to bring up the knee of the leg furthest away from you. Using the bended knee, roll the person towards you so their bent hand supports their face. Gently tilt their head back to open their airway. Stay with them until help arrives and check they are breathing.

NOT BREATHING AND UNCONSCIOUS