An accident is in a small corner. And yes, most accidents happen in and around the house. Fortunately, most injuries can be treated with a plaster. Remarkably enough, little attention is paid to preventing accidents at home and we don't always know what to do.
Numbers
In the Netherlands, 700,000 medical treatments are required for injuries in the surrounding home, of which 190,000 are for babies and children. 42% of the Dutch do not provide First Aid in the event of an accident. A lack of knowledge seems to be an important cause of this.
Common domestic accidents
Slide in the bathroom
On a wet bathroom floor, a slip is lurking daily, resulting in a broken bone or bruise.
CO
Carbon monoxide is a silent killer. You cannot smell the gas and it is released by a combustion device that is not properly maintained, such as a central heating boiler. Tip:buy a CO detector!
Burns
Burned on boiling water or on the barbeque? These can be first, second or third degree burns. It is important to immediately cool for 10 to 20 minutes with gently lukewarm running water in the event of burns.
Nosebleed Nosebleeds can be caused by a blow to the nose, sneezing, blowing through or a strong temperature change. Sit quietly and pinch the nose closed for at least 5 minutes, just below the nasal bone.
Fire
Something we'd rather not think about. Fire can spread very quickly. Within minutes the house can be ablaze. Make sure that there are at least smoke detectors and a fire extinguisher.
In-house emergency response
In the Netherlands, every organization must appoint emergency response officers. These are employees who have completed a BHV course. You can indicate to your employer that you want to become an emergency response officer. In this way you will be taught the knowledge and skills to provide first aid, also at home.
