Emergency warning signs to act on

Stroke — remember F.A.S.T.

Stroke is now a leading killer of Nigerian adults and can be reversed if treated in the first few hours.

• F — Face drooping on one side
• A — Arm weakness on one side
• S — Speech slurred or confused
• T — Time to call for help, immediately

Heart attack

Crushing chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes, often spreading to the jaw, neck or left arm, with sweating, nausea or shortness of breath. Women may have less classic symptoms — unusual fatigue, back pain, or jaw pain. Sit down, chew an adult aspirin (300 mg) if not allergic, and get to hospital.

Severe bleeding

Apply firm, direct pressure with a clean cloth. Don't remove soaked cloths — add more on top. Raise the bleeding limb above the heart if possible. Get to hospital.

Choking

If the person can cough or speak, encourage coughing. If they can't breathe, give 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades, then 5 abdominal thrusts. Alternate until the object comes out or help arrives.

Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)

Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing, widespread rash or collapse. Use an adrenaline auto-injector if available and call for emergency help immediately.

Burns

Cool the burn under cool running water for at least 20 minutes. Don't use ice, butter or toothpaste. Cover with a clean cloth and seek hospital review for large, deep or facial burns.

Drowning, near-drowning, electrocution

Ensure the scene is safe before you approach. If the person isn't breathing, start CPR immediately and send someone to call for help. For electrocution, switch off the power source if you can do so safely before touching the victim.