Even in a country where the sun shines for a large percentage of the time, the Aussie summer still an increase in people getting out and enjoying life with an almost hedonistic attitude.
But our enthusiasm for summer down-under doesn’t always come without a cost. Not only are we home to some of the most unique and accessible natural features on the planet but also to some of the worlds most dangerous creatures – and they are not always the notorious ones, sharks, the King Brown Snake, the Red Back Spider or the Sydney Rock Oyster – wait, what? – the Sydney Rock Oyster?
Here are 3 of the most common dangers the average Australian will encounter over the summer months – and some common sense first aid tips.
1) Sunburn
With one of the harshest UV ratings of anywhere, Australians are more sun-aware than most. But it only takes a few unprotected hours in the sun – winter or summer – to get a severe case of sunburn. Red, stinging skin is a sure sign you have hit the danger zone.
With sunburn, prevention is much better than the cure. Make sure you stay hydrated by drinking lots of water, and cover up – if you’ve forgotten to apply a strong sunscreen, wear a loose long sleeved shirt and a hat. As they say. slip-slop-slap!
Most pharmacies sell after sun lotion or aloe vera gel to help soothe burnt skin.
2) Oyster cuts
Oysters can deliver some of the most severe cuts seen by the Emergency Room. Commonly requiring stitches, an untended oyster cut can become infected and turn septic very quickly if not correctly attended to.
Make sure you always wear sturdy shoes when walking around the rocks on coastal headlands and avoid swimming in areas where oysters are prevalent. If you do get an oyster cut, rinse with clean water and have it checked by a qualified first aid person or a doctor as soon as possible.
3) Bluebottle stings
Bluebottles are a part of the jellyfish family, they float, almost invisible in the surf. A sure sign there are bluebottles in the surf are the ones found lying on the shoreline. They can be identified by the bulbous blue bubble and long blue thread. It is this thread that contains the venom that causes the intense stinging. There are a variety of suggested home remedies for bluebottle stings however NSW Ambulance recommend immersing the affected area in tolerably hot water, and calling 000 for assistance – particularly for children or the elderly.
Understanding the actions to take to provide the correct first aid response in any of these situations can be critical. A First Aid course will give you the skills and knowledge needed in these and other situations.
Edway Training offers First Aid courses in Sydney CBD, Seven Hills and Mona Vale.
Check the First Aid training schedule for NSW.
Check the CPR training schedule for NSW.
Check the Child Care First Aid training schedule for NSW.
We also offer the First Aid course in Melbourne.
Check the First Aid training schedule for VIC.
Check the CPR training for VIC.
