St John Ambulance is asking people to brush up on their first aid ahead of Christmas to ease pressure on hospital emergency departments and potentially save lives.
Medical director Dr Lynn Thomas says: “As we prepare for our second Christmas of the pandemic, no-one wants to add to the burden on the NHS when an injury could be treated at home.
“From burning yourself on a candle to choking on a piece of turkey, I’m afraid accidents do happen at Christmas.
“While people must still call 999 in an emergency, giving the right first aid promptly will make a difference – not only might it save you a trip to hospital but it could save a loved one’s life.”
The health charity is particularly urging people to refresh their skills by watching short training videos in how to treat minor injuries such as burns, cuts and sprains.
It also points to videos showing how to give life-saving first aid in the case of choking, unconsciousness and cardiac arrest, including updated advice for Covid-19.
Thousands of St John volunteers have supported the NHS since the start of the pandemic – helping with Covid-19 vaccinations as well as caring for people in hospitals and on ambulances.
