Grade V Science Study Notes
Chapter: Stay Safe
What is First Aid?
First aid is the immediate help given to a person who is injured or suddenly falls ill before medical help arrives. It can save lives and prevent injuries from becoming worse.
Goals of First Aid
- Save life.
- Prevent the injury from becoming worse.
- Reduce pain.
- Help the person recover safely.
1. First Aid Tips
Remember the ABC Rule
- A – Airway: Make sure the person's airway is open.
- B – Breathing: Check if the person is breathing.
- C – Circulation: Check for blood flow and severe bleeding.
General First Aid Tips
- Stay calm and do not panic.
- Call an adult or emergency services immediately.
- Wash your hands before helping if possible.
- Never move a seriously injured person unless there is danger.
- Keep the injured person comfortable and warm.
- Use a clean cloth or bandage to cover wounds.
2. Animal Bites
Animal bites from dogs, cats, monkeys, or other animals can spread dangerous diseases like rabies.
First Aid
- Wash the bite with soap and running water for at least 15 minutes.
- Apply an antiseptic lotion.
- Cover the wound with a clean bandage.
- Visit a doctor immediately.
- If possible, note the type of animal.
Do Not
- Do not ignore the bite.
- Do not apply mud, oil, or herbal paste.
3. Severe Bleeding
Heavy bleeding can be dangerous because the body loses a lot of blood.
First Aid
- Press firmly on the wound with a clean cloth.
- Raise the injured part above the heart if possible.
- Tie a bandage firmly (not too tight).
- Call for medical help immediately.
Do Not
- Do not remove cloth if blood soaks through it. Place another cloth on top.
4. Eye Irritation
Dust, smoke, soap, or chemicals may irritate the eyes.
First Aid
- Wash the eye gently with clean water.
- Blink several times.
- Ask the person not to rub the eye.
- See a doctor if irritation continues.
Do Not
- Do not rub the eye.
- Do not use sharp objects to remove dirt.
5. Burns
Burns may be caused by fire, hot water, steam, electricity, or chemicals.
First Aid
- Cool the burn with cool running water for 10–20 minutes.
- Cover with a clean, dry cloth.
- Go to the hospital if the burn is severe.
Do Not
- Do not apply butter, toothpaste, oil, or ice.
- Do not burst blisters.
6. Electric Shock
Electric shock happens when electricity passes through the body.
First Aid
- Switch off the electricity first.
- Use a dry wooden stick or plastic object to separate the person from the source if needed.
- Call an adult or emergency services.
- If the person is unconscious, seek medical help immediately.
Do Not
- Never touch the person directly while the electricity is still on.
- Never use metal objects.
7. Safety from Fire
Fire accidents can happen at home, school, or other places.
Fire Safety Rules
- Do not play with matches or lighters.
- Keep away from fireworks without adult supervision.
- Know where fire exits are.
- Install smoke alarms if possible.
If Clothes Catch Fire
Remember STOP, DROP, and ROLL.
- STOP – Do not run.
- DROP – Lie down.
- ROLL – Roll on the ground until the flames go out.
If There is Smoke
- Crawl close to the floor.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a cloth.
- Move quickly to a safe place.
Emergency Numbers (India)
- 112 – National Emergency
- 101 – Fire Brigade
- 108 – Ambulance (available in many states)
Safety Rules to Remember
- Keep medicines away from children.
- Never touch electrical switches with wet hands.
- Be careful while using sharp objects.
- Wear helmets while cycling.
- Wear seat belts in cars.
- Follow road safety rules.
- Learn basic first aid.
Key Words
- First Aid: Immediate help before medical treatment.
- Antiseptic: A medicine that prevents infection.
- Bandage: A cloth used to cover and protect wounds.
- Burn: Injury caused by heat, electricity, chemicals, or fire.
- Rabies: A dangerous disease spread by infected animal bites.
- Emergency: A serious situation needing immediate help.
Quick Revision
- First aid is the first help given before a doctor arrives.
- Wash animal bites with soap and water immediately.
- Press firmly on wounds to stop severe bleeding.
- Wash irritated eyes with clean water.
- Cool burns with running water.
- Switch off electricity before helping someone with electric shock.
- Remember STOP, DROP, and ROLL during a fire.
- Call 112 in an emergency.