St John Ambulance NSW is urging Australians to stay safe and learn first aid skills as the country  reaches midsummer. With people spending more time outdoors, the organisation is encouraging  Australians to remain aware of the risks of the sun. 

The Deputy Commissioner of Advisory at St John Ambulance NSW, Elliot Williams, says, ‘Heat  exhaustion and heatstroke are two of the most serious issues that can occur from extreme heat and  excessive sun exposure.’ 

‘Knowing the signs and symptoms of heat-related illness could save a life. Signs of heat exhaustion  include heavy sweating, pale skin, fast and weak pulse rate, fast and shallow breathing, tiredness,  dizziness and headaches.’ 

‘Signs and symptoms of heatstroke include a sudden rise in body temperature, red, hot and dry skin,  a dry swollen tongue, a rapid pulse, rapid shallow breathing, intense thirst, dizziness, nausea and in  severe cases, seizures or loss of consciousness.’ 

On top of the risks posed by the sun, St John Ambulance NSW say Australians need to remain alert  around the water too. 

With 60 drowning deaths in Australia already reported this summer1, knowing how to recognise and  respond to an emergency incident can mean the difference between life and death. 

Sarah Lance, CEO of St John Ambulance NSW, encourages all Australians who are spending more  time outdoors and near the water to brush up on their first aid skills. 

‘Whether it’s at the beach, pool, river or lake – Australian’s love spending time in the water. But we  know accidents can happen anywhere and at any time, which is why knowing how to respond is  critical.’ 

‘Having first aid and CPR skills are so important and can mean the difference between life and death.  You’re never too old or too young to learn CPR – it’s knowledge that all Australians should have’. 

St John offers the following tips for those spending more time in the sun, or in the water, over the  coming months: 

• Stay well hydrated: Drink plenty of water 
• Never go swimming alone: Always be sure to have people around you when swimming • Protect yourself from the sun: Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and loose fitted clothing.  Be sure to take time out to rest in the shade during the day. 

• Seek help: If you feel sick or get injured, make sure to get help For more information, or to download our free fact sheets, please visit www.stjohnnsw.com.au

Performing CPR (On an adult) 

CPR is the action of giving 30 compressions followed by 2 breaths. 

1. Kneel beside the casualty 
2. Place the heel of your hand on the lower half of the sternum, in the centre of the chest, and  the heel of your other hand over the top 
3. Interlock your fingers on both hands 
4. Provide 30 compressions (pushing down 1/3 of the depth of the chest) 
5. Tilt head and lift chin to clear tongue from airway 
6. Provide 2 breaths 
7. Provide 30 more compressions 
8. Continue compressions and breaths in a ratio of 30:2 until medical assistance arrives 

First Aid for Heatstroke  

1. Follow DRSABCD.  
2. Apply cold packs or wrapped ice:  

• To neck, groin and armpits.  

3. Cover with wet sheet.  
4. Ensure an ambulance has been called — triple zero (000).  
5. Give water if patient is  

• Full conscious and able to swallow.  

6. Seek medical aid  

• If person has a seizure or becomes unconscious.  

About St John Ambulance (NSW)  

St John NSW has been working with and making a difference in communities across NSW for over  135 years to save lives through first aid. Our vision is to have one person educated, equipped and  prepared to provide first aid in every home, workplace and public gathering.