What can parents do to help their child if they get hurt this summer? Rachel Moffatt, Founder of Bumblebee First Aid offers tips on how to handle some common summertime complaints

Insect Stings (bees and wasps)

-          If the sting is visible scrape it off the skin with your fingernails or the edge of a bank card (or similar)

-          Wash the area with soap and water

-          Elevate the body part that has been stung and if possible apply an ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel) for 10 minutes

-          Visit your GP if pain for swelling persists

-          Seek emergency medical treatment for any signs of allergic reaction

Bruises

-          These are caused by bleeding under the skin, bluish or purple- coloured patches appear under the skin.

-          Cool the area with an ice pack (wrapped in a tea towel) or running water as soon as possible for least 10 minutes

-          Most bruises disappear within 2 weeks but if it is still there after 2 weeks then the casualty should visit a GP

Heat Exhaustion

-          Excessive sweating means the body losses water and salts which can lead to Heat Exhaustion. The core body temperature rises above 38⁰C and if not treated can lead to Heat Stroke.

-          Signs and symptoms can include dizziness and confusion, vomiting and stomach cramps, fatigue, hot and flushed skin

-          Treatment includes getting them to rest in a cool place, giving them plenty of fluids to drink (sports drinks are good) , cool skin with water (a shower is best) and obtain medical advice, even if they recover quickly

Remember to keep well hydrated and stay out of the midday sun, cover up and wear hats. Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going out  and re-apply sunscreen at least every 2 hours or as appropriate. Babies under six months should always be kept shaded and out the way of direct sunlight

Grazes

-          The surface layer of the skin is scraped off. Grazes often contain particles of dirt which can cause infection

-          Wash the graze using clean water and sterile swabs and dress the graze with a sterile dressing.

-          Seek medical advice if there is potential damage to deeper tissues, a risk of infection or an unwelcome scar is a possibility

Bumblebee First Aid offers 2 hour baby and child first aid classes, at local venues or in the comfort of your home, from £30.00 per person (minimum 6 people). Babies under 1 are welcome.

The class covers baby and child CPR, choking, recovery position, febrile seizures, meningitis, burns, head injuries and more…

Other workplace certified courses are available including 6/12 hr Paediatric First Aid and Emergency First Aid at work.