First aid advice

First aid basics
First aid is what you do to help an injured or sick person immediately after an event. Learn about the 'DRSABCD' action plan and how to find a course.

First aid kits
An organised and properly stocked first aid kit can give you peace of mind. Discover what to keep in your first aid kit and how to use the items.

CPR - how to perform it
CPR is cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Find out how and when to perform CPR, and how to find a training course.

Calling triple zero (000)
Triple zero (000) is the emergency number for ambulance, police or fire services in Australia. Call 000 if the situation is serious and urgent.

Defibrillators
A defibrillator can save someone's life if they have a cardiac arrest. Learn more about defibrillators and how to find and use one.

Bites and stings
Most insect bites and stings are relatively harmless - but some spiders, snakes and sea creatures can be very dangerous. Learn more about them here.

Bumps, knocks and bruises
Bumps, knocks and bruises are common injuries. Read about related symptoms, when to see a doctor, treatment options and possible complications.

Burns and scalds
Burns are common and causes include sunburn, scalds from hot water and chemical burns. Read about the symptoms of and treatment options for burns.

Chemical burns
Many chemicals can cause serious burns to the skin, which should be treated as a medical emergency. Learn how to perform first aid for chemical burns.

Choking
Choking is when something gets stuck in your throat or windpipe and blocks it. Find out about choking first aid and what to do in an emergency.

How to use an adrenaline autoinjector
An adrenaline autoinjector can save the life of someone who's having a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). Learn how to use an EpiPen or an Anapen...

Hot weather risks and staying cool
Hot days and heatwaves can place extreme stress the body, and for some it can be dangerous. Here’s how to keep yourself and others cool and hydrated.

Poisoning
Poisoning is common and most cases happen at home. Learn about the symptoms, prevention and what to do in an emergency.

Swallowed object
Swallowing foreign objects, such as a button battery or magnet, can be dangerous. Know what to do if you or your child has swallowed a dangerous objec...

Swallowed substance
Common household and garden products are often swallowed by accident. While many are low toxicity, some are potentially harmful.

Wounds, cuts and grazes
Minor wounds like cuts and grazes can usually be treated without medical attention, by keeping them clean and preventing infection. Find out how.