Vital intervention in forest fires: First aid guide from Kızılay

Following the increase in forest fires during the summer months, the Turkish Red Crescent (Kızılay) has launched a comprehensive awareness campaign focused on the safety of volunteers and effective first aid practices. The guide, prepared for citizens working in the field, details the correct methods to be applied against potential health risks. Kızılay's training is supported by direct application-oriented video content and simplified digital guides.

Among the most common problems encountered by volunteers working in disaster areas are burns, smoke inhalation, and sudden fainting. Kızılay is providing continuous information through both printed and digital media to raise public awareness regarding these risks.

COMMON MISTAKES IN INITIAL BURN TREATMENT

Burns are one of the most common health problems encountered in forest fires. Kızılay Emergency Health Services Manager Elif Taşkın Aytekin stated, "Applying substances like toothpaste, yogurt, or oil to the burn area is among the common and dangerous mistakes. The correct approach is to keep the burn area under cold water for at least 15-20 minutes and cover it with a sterile cloth if necessary." Emphasizing that attention should be paid to the cleanliness and cooling of the burn area, Aytekin also noted that it is important not to pop any blisters.

FAST AND CORRECT APPROACH TO SMOKE INHALATION

Another risk that those working in the forest may frequently encounter is exposure to heavy smoke and carbon monoxide poisoning. Kızılay experts recommend first moving the person quickly to a smoke-free and ventilated environment. If the person is unconscious, the airway should be kept open using the recovery position (lying on the side). In case of loss of consciousness or difficulty breathing, 112 Emergency Services should be called immediately, and basic life support should be applied while waiting for professional help.

HOW TO PROVIDE CORRECT FIRST AID IN CASE OF FAINTING?

Fainting can be frequently seen in fire zones due to heat or stress. Experts point out that methods such as slapping or splashing water on a person who has fainted are incorrect, despite being widely practiced in society. They state that the most effective approach is to lay the person on their back and elevate their legs by 30 cm. The state of consciousness should be monitored continuously, and medical support should be obtained quickly if deemed necessary.

KIZILAY'S NEW GENERATION MOBILE FIRST AID APPLICATION

Kızılay has made the "Kızılay First Aid Application," accessible via Google Play and the App Store, available for volunteers and everyone working in disaster areas to reach information quickly. This application is equipped with interactive training videos, basic life support guides, and emergency instructions. It helps teams in the field respond to situations they may encounter during interventions.

Experts emphasize the role of technology in providing instant access to information, noting that the mobile application is essential for safe and effective first aid.

FINAL CALL FROM KIZILAY: CORRECT INFORMATION SAVES LIVES

Kızılay officials advise volunteers not to participate in field work without completing their training and accessing the most up-to-date information. The success of interventions in disaster areas is directly dependent on fast and correct first aid practices. Through the training programs and digital content it has prepared, Kızılay plays a critical role in protecting the lives of both volunteers and those in need of help. With the message "Having the right information saves lives," officials call on all volunteers to engage in continuous training and follow current developments.