Emergencies can happen anytime, affecting anyone. Whether it’s a coworker collapsing, a child choking, or a stranger having a heart attack, knowing how to act quickly can save lives. Learning first aid is essential.
In the UK, around 150,000 people die each year when first aid could help. Yet, only a few people feel confident to step in. Learning first aid is not just useful; it’s a responsibility.
At Training 22, we aim to create a nation of lifesavers. This blog covers important first aid techniques to help everyday people feel ready to respond. Our first aid courses turn knowledge into action that can save lives.
1. CPR: The Lifeline That Restarts the Heart
A sudden cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time. If help doesn’t arrive quickly, the chances of survival drop by 10% for every minute. That’s why learning CPR is so important.
Why CPR Matters:
- It keeps oxygen-rich blood flowing to vital organs.
- It bridges the gap between collapse and professional care.
- It’s a cornerstone of all first aid training.
Steps to Perform CPR:
- Check responsiveness and breathing. If the person doesn’t respond, call 999 and start CPR.
- Give 30 chest compressions. Press down 5–6 cm deep, at a speed of 100–120 per minute.
- If trained, provide 2 rescue breaths. If not, keep doing compressions until help arrives.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are now common in public areas. Our one-day first aid course teaches you how to use AEDs confidently, which could double someone’s chance of survival.
2. The Recovery Position: Keeping the Airway Clear
Sometimes, a person may be unconscious but still breathing. In these situations, the recovery position is the safest option. It keeps the airway clear, prevents choking, and gives time for help to arrive.
How to Position the Casualty:
- Gently roll the person onto their side, keeping their head tilted back.
- Ensure the mouth is angled downward to allow fluids to drain.
- Support the head and position the legs for stability.
This technique is crucial for overdose, fainting, or after a seizure. It’s a simple but important part of basic first aid that we practise a lot in training.
3. Dealing with Choking: Quick Reactions Save Lives
A blocked airway can quickly cause unconsciousness or death. Choking is especially risky for small children and older adults. You need to act quickly and confidently.
First Aid Steps for Choking:
- Encourage the person to cough forcefully.
- If ineffective, give 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.
- If the blockage stays, do 5 abdominal thrusts. Wrap your arms around your waist and pull inward and upward.
Keep repeating this process until the object is removed or the person stops responding. Learn how to adjust these steps for infants and pregnant people in our emergency first aid course.
4. Bleeding Control: Stopping Blood Loss Fast
Uncontrolled bleeding can quickly become dangerous. Whether it’s a deep cut, puncture wound, or injury, it’s important to act fast.
Basic Bleeding Control Techniques:
- Use direct pressure with a clean cloth or bandage.
- Elevate the injured limb if safe to do so.
- Apply a tourniquet only if trained and as a last resort.
In our first aid at work course, we train you to tell the difference between arterial and venous bleeding. You will also learn when to ask for help.
5. Shock Management: Protecting Vital Organs
Shock happens when the body can’t supply oxygen to its tissues. It is often caused by injury, blood loss, or serious infection, and can be life-threatening if not treated.
Recognising Shock:
- Cold, clammy skin.
- Rapid pulse and shallow breathing.
- Confusion or drowsiness.
What to Do:
- Lay the casualty flat and raise their legs.
- Keep them warm and calm.
- Avoid giving anything to eat or drink.
Training with us will teach you how to handle all types of shock, including anaphylactic and hypovolaemic.
6. Burns and Scalds: Cooling Down the Damage
Burns are common injuries at work and at home. Quick and proper treatment eases pain, prevents problems, and reduces scarring.
First Aid for Burns:
- Cool the burn immediately with running water for 10–20 minutes.
- Remove any jewellery or clothing near the burn site (unless stuck).
- Cover with a sterile, non-stick dressing; cling film works well.
Do not use ice, butter, or ointments. These old remedies can make the injury worse. Join our 3-day first aid at work course to learn the best modern practises.
7. Seizure First Aid: Calm, Clear, and Controlled
People experiencing seizures need understanding, safety, and reassurance, not restraint.
During a Seizure:
- Protect the person from injury by removing nearby objects.
- Cushion their head.
- Note the time; if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call 999.
After the Seizure:
- Place them in the recovery position.
- Stay with them until they are fully alert.
Our one-day first aid course helps you support people with epilepsy, even during their first seizure.
8. Heart Attack Response: Acting Fast Makes the Difference
A heart attack can occur suddenly and may not seem serious at first. Getting help quickly can minimise damage and save lives.
Common Signs:
- Chest pain or tightness.
- Pain spreading to the left arm, jaw, or back.
- Nausea, sweating, and breathlessness.
Immediate Action:
- Dial 999 without delay.
- Keep the person calm and seated.
- Offer 300 mg of aspirin (chewed) if not allergic.
These responses are key parts of our emergency first aid course at work, designed for real-life situations.
9. Stroke Identification: Use the FAST Method
Strokes happen suddenly and need quick medical help. The faster a stroke is recognised, the better the chance for recovery.
FAST Test:
- Face: Can they smile? Is one side drooping?
- Arms: Can they lift both arms?
- Speech: Is their speech slurred?
- Time: Call 999 immediately.
In our first aid at work course, you’ll practise this technique with role-play and scenario training.
10. Allergic Reactions & Anaphylaxis: Using an EpiPen Safely
Severe allergic reactions can happen very quickly. Knowing how to use an adrenaline auto-injector (EpiPen) can save lives.
Signs of Anaphylaxis:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Swelling of the face or throat.
- Rapid heartbeat and dizziness.
Emergency Response:
- Use the EpiPen promptly on the outer thigh.
- Keep the person lying down with raised legs.
- Call 999 even if symptoms improve.
EpiPen training is part of all our emergency first aid courses for the workplace.
11. Asthma Attack Response: Supporting Breathing
Asthma is a long-term condition, but sudden attacks can be risky if inhalers aren’t used quickly.
Helping During an Attack:
- Encourage the person to take slow, deep breaths.
- Help them use their reliever inhaler (usually blue).
- If symptoms persist, call emergency services.
At Training 22, our first aid course teaches you how to calmly deal with breathing emergencies.
12. Poisoning Emergencies: Think Fast, Act Smart
Poisoning can happen from everyday products, medicines, alcohol, or chemicals. Staying calm and knowing what to do can help prevent serious injury.
What to Do:
- Call 999 or 111 immediately.
- Try to determine what was taken, how much, and when.
- Do not give food, fluids, or induce vomiting unless instructed.
Our 3-day first aid course covers various poisoning situations, including toddlers swallowing pills and chemical exposures at work.
13. Nosebleeds and Minor Injuries: Everyday Issues That Still Matter
Not every emergency is dramatic. Minor injuries happen often, and knowing how to treat them helps prevent complications.
For Nosebleeds:
- Sit the person down and lean them forward.
- Pinch the nose for 10–15 minutes.
For Minor Cuts and Scrapes:
- Clean the wound with water.
- Apply an adhesive bandage.
- Watch for signs of infection.
These small issues are the basics of first aid knowledge, supported by hands-on practise in every first aid at work course.
14. Why Professional Training Makes All the Difference
Reading about first aid is helpful, but practising with experts makes it stick. Our courses offer hands-on experience with dummies, real-life scenarios, and feedback from professionals.
Benefits of Our Courses:
- Nationally recognised certification
- Realistic emergency scenarios
- Confidence to act when it matters
By taking a 1-day or 3-day first aid at work course, or our emergency first aid course, you are gaining important lifesaving skills.
Our extended catalogue also includes:
- Paediatric First Aid Training: Perfect for nursery and school staff.
- Emergency Paediatric First Aid: A 1-day crash course ideal for parents.
- Basic Life Support Training: A focused course for healthcare workers and carers.
Learn the Skills That Save Lives
Learn first aid skills to help others and make a difference in your community.
Whether you’re a manager needing to meet regulations, a parent wanting to keep your family safe, or an employee focused on workplace safety, Training 22 has the course for you.
Sign up for a first aid at work course or an emergency first aid course. Gain essential knowledge that could save a life.