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Let us see how much you know about the current situation of our
country specifically to Metro Manila. If your familiar with the facts that
will be detailed below, thats a good job. For those who encounter
these for the first time, this is a moment for you to reflect on the things
that might happen to us if a disaster will happen in the country. The
important question that we need to answer is
It lies in the path of turbulent typhoons, with an average of 20 typhoons crossing the
Philippine area of responsibility. The archipelagic nature of the Philippine coastal areas
increases susceptibility to storm surges, tsunamis and sea level changes.
The country experiences floods and landslides which are common due to rains brought
by typhoons and monsoon. Located in the western part of the Pacific Ocean, the
country is also vulnerable to the El Nio Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The El Nio of
1997-98 induced drought and delayed the onset of monsoon, which resulted to a
scarcity in drinking water in urban areas and shortfalls in hydro-electricity generation
because of reduced water levels in major dams.
Thus, the potential for natural disaster in Metro Manila is high and the reduction of
its vulnerability is a pressing issue for the safety of residents.
Now you see how much our country is prone to a lot of disasters! In an
effort to prepare for such disasters, the Philippines and Japan
government worked together to come up with a comprehensive study
called Metropolitan Manila Earthquake Impact Reduction Study
(MMEIRS). Isnt this exciting! Let us see ho w the study went.
MMEIRS results
As a result of the study, there were 105
recommended action plans which the Metropolitan
Manila Disaster Coordinating Council (MMDCC)
members should implement within 3 to 6 years. Also,
based on the damage estimation by MMEIRS Study:
There is a potential rupture of West Valley Fault,
approximately 40% of the total number of
residential buildings within Metropolitan
Manila will collapse or be affected.
This building collapse directly affects large numbers of people, si nce it is
estimated to cause 34,000 deaths and 1,144,000 injuries.
http://www.rivertoncity.com/community.emergency.html
Hazards
any phenomenon, substance or situation, which has the potential to cause
disruption or damage to infrastructure and services, people, their property
and their environment.
Can be:
NATURAL (i.e. earthquakes, droughts);
armed conflicts) ;
Risk
RISK
HAZARD
X
Vulnerability
CAPACITY
Vulnerability (weaknesses)
A concept which describes factors or constraints of an economic, social,
physical or geographic nature, which reduce the ability of a community to
prepare for and cope with the impact of hazards
Capacities (strengths)
The resources and skills people possess, can develop, mobilize and
access which allow them to have more control over shaping their own
future and coping with disaster risks
(Anderson:1989)
Disaster
The serious disruption of the functioning of society, causing widespread
human, material or environmental losses, which exceed the ability of the
affected communities to cope using their own resources. Disasters occur
when the negative effects of the hazards are not well managed.
Risk Reduction Measures
These are various activities, projects and programs that the communities
may identify after assessing and analyzing the risks that they face. These
measures are specifically intended to reduce the current and prevent future
risks in the community.
PRE-DISASTER
DISASTER
RESILIENT COMMUNITY
RESTORATION
TAKE NOTE: A disaster resilient community (individual) has the capacity or ability to
anticipate, prepare for, respond to and recover quickly from the impacts of disaster.
Now let us move on to the natural disasters that commonly hit the Philippines. As
the clich goes information is knowledge, so let us be guided by the following
disaster guidelines and be familiar with it. It would be helpful if you dont keep these
information to yourself, share it with your friends, families and neighbors. It is better
to be prepared than sorry!
A. Earthquake
An EARTHQUAKE is feeble shaking to violent trembling of the ground
produced by the sudden displacement of rocks or rock materials below the earths
surface. Sudden displacements along fault fissures in the solid and rigid layer of the
earth generate TECTONIC EARTHQUAKES. Those induced by rising lava or
magma beneath active volcanoes generates VOLCANIC EARTHQUAKES.
(http://www.ompongplaza.org.ph/MMEIRS/08_BOOKLET/05_MITIGATION_HANDBOOK.PDF)
(http://www.ompongplaza.org.ph/MMEIRS/02_VOL2_MAIN1/MAIN1_02.PDF)
Sources:
1. California Governo rs Office of Emergen cy Services.(2003). Ea rthquake Preparedness Tips. Retrieved from:
www.oes.ca.gov/CEPM2003.nsf/htmlmedia/dch.../d ch_d rill.pdf
2. Earthquake and Tsunami.(1990). Department of Scien ce and Technology- Philippine Institute of Volcanology and
Seismology. Quezon City: DOST-PHILVOLCS.
3. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council. (2005). Philippine Disaster Managemen t
Framework. Retrieved from: http://www.nd cc.gov.ph/
4. Singapore Civil Defence Fo rce. (2005). Emergency Handbook.Singapore: Singapore Governmen t.
B. Tsunami
Tsunamis are giant sea waves
generated by the under-the-sea earthquakes
and volcanic eruptions. Not all underwater
earthquakes and volcanic eruptions, however,
can cause the occurrence of tsunamis.
Tsunamis can only occur when the earthquake
is shallow-seated and strong enough to
displace parts of the seabed and disturb the
mass of water over it. Although tsunamis may
be triggered in various ways, their effects on
coastal areas are similar.
3. Rumbling
sound
approaching waves
of
Earthquake and Tsunami.(1990). Depa rtment of Scien ce and Technology- Philippine Institute of
Volcanology and Seismology. Quezon City: DOST-PHILVOLCS.
PAGASA
Singapore Civil Defence Fo rce. (2005). Emergency Handbook.Singapore: Singa pore Governmen t.
C. Storm Surge
Storm surges are abnormal rise
of water generated by storms, over
and above the predicted astronomical
tide. Its the change in the water level
that is due to the presence of a storm.
Storm surge is produced by water
being pushed toward the shore by the
force of the winds moving cyclonically around the storm. The impact on surge of the low
pressure associated with intense storms is minimal in comparison to the water being
forced toward the shore by the wind.
The maximum potential storm surge for a particular location depends on a number of
different factors. Storm surge is a very complex phenomenon because it is sensitive to
the slightest changes in storm intensity, forward speed, size (radius of maximum windsRMW), angle of approach to the coast, central pressure (minimal contribution in
comparison to the wind), and the shape and characteristics of coastal features such as
bays and estuaries.
WHAT TO DO DURING A STORM SURGE:
1. Monitor the storms progress and listen for further warnings or instructions from local
officials.
2. Flood waters can be dangerous to drive and walk through. It is best to listen carefully
to rescue officials, who will be coordinating evacuation plans, before going
anywhere.
3. Be prepared to evacuate at a moment's notice. When a storm surge, flood, or flash
flood warning is issued for your area, follow your evacuation plan and head for
higher ground, and stay there.
4. Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is
above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. Six inches of swiftly
moving water can sweep you off your feet. Be especially cautious at night when it is
harder to recognize flood danger.
5. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, Do Not attempt to cross flowing
water. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you,
get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away
by less than two feet of moving water.
6. Make sure you take your emergency supplies kit with you.
7. If you are evacuating your home, leave a note there stating your whereabouts.
Register at any local registration and inquiry center so you can be contacted when it
is safe to return home.
D. Fire
According to the Fire Code of the Philippines, fire is the active principle of burning,
characterized by the heat and light of combustion. Fire can cause major disasters and
loss of lives in buildings such offices, hotels, hospitals, schools and homes. Such
disasters can be avoided if proper fire safety practices are observed.
Bureau of Fire Pro tection. (2009). Fire code of the Philippines. Retrieved from:
http://www.bfpresponse.gov.ph/RA9514%20IRR%20Signed%20by%20SILG.pdf
Bureau of Fire Pro tection. (n.d.) Fire Safety Tips. Retrieved from:
http://www.bfpresponse.gov.ph/downloads.html
Singapore Civil Defence Fo rce. (2005). Emergency Handbook.Singapore: Singapore Governmen t.
E. Landslide
Landslides are rock, earth, or debris that
flow on slopes due to gravity. They can occur on
any terrain given the right conditions of soil,
moisture, and the angle of slope. Integral to the
natural process of the earth's surface geology,
landslides serve to redistribute soil and
sediments in a process that can be in abrupt
collapses or in slow gradual slides. Such is the
nature of the earth's surface dynamics.
F. Volcanic Eruption
A volcano can be simply defined
as a rupture or an opening on the crust of
a planet like earth. This opening allows
hot ash, molten rock and gases to blow
off from the underground spaces.
Volcanoes generally acquire shape of a
mountain. Volcanoes are usually found at
places where tectonic plates get
converged or diverged. The common
features of volcanic eruptions are lava
and release of poisonous gases from the
Source: Pyroclastic flows at Mayon Volcano [Image](n.d.).
crater situated at the summit of the
Retrieved from: http://es.wikipedia.org/
volcanoes. If a volcano erupts where you
wiki/Archivo:Pyroclastic_flows_at_Mayon_Volcano.jpg
live follow the evacuation order issued by
authorities and evacuate immediately from the volcano area to avoid flying debris, hot
gases, lateral blast, and lava flow.
What to do to during volcanic eruptions:
1. Avoid the declared permanent danger zones in your locality. Also, rivers where
hazardous volcanic substances can flow should be avoided.
2. Leave the area immediately. If you are warned to evacuate because an eruption is
imminent, evacuate.
3. Be aware of mudflows. The danger from a mudflow increases near stream channels
and with prolonged heavy rains. Mudflows can move faster than you can walk or run.
Look upstream before crossing a bridge, and do not cross the bridge if a mudflow is
approaching.
4. Avoid river valleys and low-lying areas.
5. If you are along the path of potential lahar flows, move to higher ground or to a
designated evacuation site.
6. Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance infants, elderly
people, and people with disabilities.
7. If you have a respiratory ailment, avoid contact with any amount of ash.
8. Food should always be covered to prevent contamination.
9. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.
10. Use goggles and wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses.
11. Use a dust mask or hold a damp cloth over your face to help with breathing.
12. Stay indoors until the ash has settled unless there is a danger of the roof collapsing.
13. Close doors, windows, and all ventilation in the house (air conditioners, fans, and other
vents.)
14. Always clean your roof when heavy ash fall occurs to prevent collapse.
15. Avoid running car or truck engines. Driving can stir up volcanic ash that can clog
engines, damage moving parts, and stall vehicles.
Sources for the Guidelines on Volcanic Eruptions:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Key Facts About Protecting Yourself During a Volcanic Eruption. Retrieved
from: http://www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/volcanoes/during.asp
Ezine Articles. (n.d.). Volcano Eruption - 15 Important Factors To Prepare. Retrieved from: http://EzineArticles.com/1662110
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. (2008). Active Volcanoes. Retrieved from: http://www.phivolcs.
dost.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=57:active-volcanoes&catid=55&Itemid=114___________.
(n.d.). Safety During Volcanic Eruptions. Retrieved from: http://www.healthypinoy.com/health/articles/disaster-preparednessvolcanic-eruption.html
G. Typhoon
The Philippines geographical location and physical environment make it
vulnerable to natural hazards such as tropical cyc lones, floods, extreme rainfall,
thunderstorm (TSTM), storm surges, strong winds, tornado and others. Every year,
these hazards bring havoc to life and
property,
seriously
disrupt
our
agriculture-based economy and disturb
the lives of millions of Filipino families. In
2009, a series of typhoons hit the
country over a five-week period.
Typhoons Ondoy, Pepeng, Ramil and
Santi
brought
extensive
flooding,
destroyed properties and caused a
number of casualties in different regions
of the country as many were caught
unaware of the intensity of these
typhoons.
Source: Typhoon [Image](n.d). Retrieved fro m:
http://ecohope.blogspot.com/2009/09/typhoon-ondoy-in-manila-philippines.html
power lines causing disruption in the basic utilities. Rains moving inland can produce 10
inches or more and cause deadly flooding.
The classification of tropical cyclones according to the strength of the associated winds as
adopted by PAGASA as of May 01, 2015 are as follows:
1. Tropical Depression (TD) - a tropical cyclone with maximum sustained
winds of up to 61 kilometers per hour (kph) or less than 33 nautical miles per
hour (knots)
2. Tropical Storm (TS) - a tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed of 62 to
88 kph or 34 - 47 knots.
3. Severe Tropical Storm (STS) - a tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed
of 89 to 117 kph or 48 - 63 knots.
4. Typhoon (TY) - a tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed of 118 to 220
kph or 64 - 120 knots.
5. Super Typhoon (STY) - a tropical cyclone with maximum wind speed
exceeding 220 kph or more than 120 knots.
Source: Philippines Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration. Retrieved from:
http://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/index.php/learning-tools/94-weather/479-tropical-cyclones#classification-of-tropicalcyclones
way leading to the river. Bring clothes, first aid kit, candles/flashlight, battery-powered
radio and food.
9. After the typhoon, if your house was destroyed, make sure that it is already safe and
stable when you enter.
10. Watch out for live wires or outlet immersed in water; report damaged electrical cables
and fallen electric posts to the authorities.
11. Do not let water accumulate in tires, cans or pots to avoid creating a favorable condition
for mosquito breeding.
Sources:
CHED Memorandum Order No. 34. (2010) Commission on Higher Education (CHED). Retrieved from:
http://202.57.63.198/chedwww/index.php/eng/Information/CHED-Memorandum-Orders/2010-CHED-Memorandum-Orders
DepED Guidelines on the Suspension of Classes. (2005). Department of Education. Retrieved from:
http://www.deped.gov.ph/e_posts.asp?id=475
Philippines Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Service Administration Retrieved from:
http://www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph/index.php/learning-tools/94-weather/479-tropical-cyclones#classification-of-tropical-cyclones
Singapore Civil Defence Force. (2005). Emergency Handbook.Singapore: Singapore Government.
Typhoon Preparedness. (n.d.). Retrieved from: http://www.pdfio.com/k-430968.html#
H. Climate Change
One of the pressing issues that countries have been dealing with in recent time is
Climate Change. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Climate
change refers to any significant change in the measures of climate lasting for an extended
period of time. In other words, climate change includes major changes in temperature,
precipitation, or wind patterns, among other effects, that occur over several decades or
longer.
Most climate scientists agree the main cause of the current global warming trend is
human expansion of the "greenhouse effect", i.e. warming that result when the atmosphere
traps heat radiating from Earth toward space. Certain gases in the atmosphere block heat
from escaping. Long-lived gases that remain semi-permanently in the atmosphere and do
not respond physically or chemically to changes in temperature are described as "forcing"
climate change. Gases, such as water vapor, which respond physically or chemically to
changes in temperature, are seen as "feedbacks." (http://climate.nasa.gov/causes/)
There are several and compelling evidences proving the current state of climate
change around the world from the rising of our water levels, the global rise in temperature,
the worldwide shrinking of ice sheets, extreme typhoons and hurricanes experienced
around the world, etc. These reasons alone should make one be wary of the dangers of
climate change. The graph below, based on the comparison of atmospheric samples
contained in ice cores and more recent direct measurements, illustrates the sudden rise of
carbon dioxide in the atmosphere since the dawn of industrial age.
Below is another graph illustrating an increase of 0.74 C in the global mean temperature for
the last 150 years compared with the 1961-1990 global average.
Retrieved from: Climate Change in the Pilippines (2011). Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
Here in the Philippines, an increase in temperature was also observed. A study made by
PAG-ASA yielded adverse results. The graph shown below indicates an increase of 0.648
C or an average of 0.0108 C per year increase from 1951 to 2010.
Retrieved from: Climate Change in the Pilippines (2011). Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
periods will affect our agricultural outputs, thus affecting our whole economy. Climate
change will have a significant impact particularly in rice and corn production because they
are very susceptible to climate variability such as floods, typhoons and el-nio induced
droughts. Not only are we humans affected by climate change, but so do different species.
The combination of human stresses and climate change is expected to increase the
incidence of forest fires. Furthermore, the destruction of forest habitat is expected. These
changes in forestry and vegetation due to climate change will likely impact species
biodiversity. Climate change and temperature increases could lead to a change in our
forest ecosystem. Areas that will be affected may result in unfavorable conditions for
thriving species and forests could face die-back.
What to do as a country:
1. Develop our emergency management plans for climate hazards
2. Develop early warning systems for extreme weather events
3. Rehabilitate existing water supply and transport system
4. Implement water management measures
5. Invest in water saving technologies/ methods
6. Change farming practices
7. Develop drought management and relief protocols
8. Develop aquaculture and plantation forestry instead of exploiting native resources
9. Develop coastal zone management plans
10. Design infrastructure to accommodate sea-level rise
11. Bolster public health institutions
12. Improve access of individuals and communities to medical and public health
agencies
13. Provide education in disease prevention
Sources:
Climate Change in Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands (2011). Edited by Gilbert, Jeremy L.
A. Vulnerability Assessment
VULNERABILITY is a condition which increases the susceptibility of a community to the
impact of hazards. The communitys vulnerability is affected by the following factors:
Location
Hazard prone location
Design and construction materials
Lack of basic services
Violence (domestic and conflict)
Lack of access and control over
means of production
Environmental degradation
etc
http://article.wn.com/view/2009/10/09/Fresh_floods_swamp_Philippines/
administrative structures
Conflicts, cast system, ideology
Unequal
participation
of
community affairs
Exclusion of certain groups from
decision-making
Isolation
http://anakbayannynj.wordpress.com/2012/06/02/anakbayan-usatribute-to-ernesto-ka-erning-gulfo/
http://pinoyexpat.net/%E2%80%9860-of-ofw-families-arepoor%E2%80%99/
B. Capacities Assessment
This process determines how people respond in
time of crisis to reduce the damaging effects of
hazards. Also it determines the coping
strategies and resources of the communities.
Asset Pentagon
B. Social / Organizational
Social Networks
Extended Family
Local and National welfare Institutions
C. Attitudinal / Motivational
Sense of Control
Power
Confidence
Skills
HUMAN
SOCIAL
NATURAL
PHYSI CAL
FINANCI AL
L
If you combine the data you gathered from the vulnerability and capacity
assessment you will come up with this matrix below.
This is the most usable tool in PCVA.
Vulnerabilities
Physical /Material
Social/Organizational
Capacities
Motivational/Attitudinal
How does the community
view its ability to create
change?
Participatory
Capacities
and
Vulnerabilities Assessment as the
name of the method implies invokes
the participation of every single
member of the community, even the
children. All of them has the right to be
heard in planning for their community.
Depending on the need and extent of
the research for the communitys disaster
risk reduction management plan, the tool may vary or sometimes modified.
The purpose is to generate discussion and analysis by the community residents
themselves. After all this, plan would be beneficial to their community as part of the
mitigation measure in disaster planning.
Aside from the PCVA matrix tool above, the facilitator may also choose to use any of the
following tools whenever it deemed appropriate.
Community Disaster Evacuation Map
http://www.mercycorps.org/julierogers/blog/24801
UST-NSTP 2011
Hazard Map
Seasonal
Calendar
http://www.fao.org/docrep/V1490E/v1490e02.htm
CONCLUSION
Our history has been a witness to the shifts and developments of disaster
management of the country. The most notable has been the shifts of focus from disaster
response to the recognition and strengthening of mitigation measures . These points to the
commonly held misconception that disaster management involved only with response,
whereas, in fact, response constitutes only one phase of the whole disaster management
continuum (Rosales, 2001). Now, formal structures, offices and organizations are in place
to manage disaster that comes our way.
Rather than being on the reactive gear, you should start working the
anticipatory measures and strategies that will further facilitate the Philippines shift from a
culture that concentrate on response (eg. mass collection for relief operation) during
actual disaster to one that actually pays attention to equally significant considerations like
preparedness, mitigation, recovery and rehabilitation
I. INTRODUCTION
Imagine a 10-wheeler truck crashes into an automobile and pushes it over an
embankment. Bystanders rush to the rescue. They remove the driver of the car, stop a
passing car, lift him to his feet, and send him in a sitting position to a nearby hospital.
The driver lived but he remained paralyzed for the rest of his life.
The permanent disability could have been prevented by knowledge of what to do in an
emergency. The unskilled and improper handling of the victim has caused the victims
spinal cord to be punctured by the sharp edge of his broken vertebrae thus causing
lifetime paralysis.
This illustration clearly demonstrates the need for first aid training. Its better to know it
and not need it than to need it and not know it. How people respond to an
emergency before medical help arrives often determines how well a victim recovers. In
extreme cases, it can spell the difference between life and death.
The initial step in recognizing an emergency is noticing that something is wrong. But
generally, you will know when an emergency happens. You can tell by the type of
injuries or by how the victim looks.
Emphasis was placed on high-quality CPR (Adequate rate and depth, complete
chest recoil after each compressions, minimal interruptions in compressions and
avoiding excessive ventilation).
A change from Airway-Breathing-Compression (ABC) sequence to CompressionAirway-Breathing (CAB) sequence.
Compression rate should be at least 100/min rather than approximately 100/min.
Compression depth was increased from 1 inches to at least 2 inches.
The change in the application of CPR aims to increase the speed, efficiency and quality
of response of health care providers or bystanders to the victim. It is assumed that
before collapse or state of unresponsiveness the victim was breathing normally and
ample oxygen is present in the blood to sustain him/her for a few minutes therefore
compressions were prioritized over airway and breathing.
Updated Traditional C.P.R. for trained providers
1.
2.
3.
4.
victim and any bystanders at the scene. Always assess the situation from a safety
standpoint first. Do a 10-second survey that includes looking for three things:
a. Hazards that could be dangerous to you, the victim(s), or bystanders
b. The mechanism or cause of the injury or injuries
c. The number of victims
If at all possible, put on protective gloves to guard against exposure to any blood or
bodily fluids. Prior to approaching the victim, quickly scan the area for any hazards
such as downed power lines, spilled fuel, weapons, and an unstable vehicle or
structure. If the scene is not safe, you can either make it safe by removing the
hazard, if possible, or retreat from the scene and get help before proceeding. Never
attempt a rescue that you have not been specifically trained to do. Remember,
staying safe is your first priority; you wont be able to help someone else if you
become victim yourself.
The scene can also provide clues to whether the victim is injured or ill. For example,
if you note a ladder next to a person lying on the ground, you would assume the
victim is injured from a fall. This is referred to as the mechanism of injury. If a person
is found sitting in a chair in a restaurant, you would assume the victim is ill.
Knowing the mechanism of the injury will allow you to give useful information to the
EMS personnel who will later attend to the victim. This will enable the physician to
fully recognize the extent of injuries.
Also determine the number of injured people. Once you have determined the
number of victims, you can then have a bystander contact the necessary resources.
You may request more than one ambulance if you find several people who are
injured or ill. And also, if there is more than one victim, you will have to prioritize
which one you should give attention first.
To begin, establish rapport with the victim by introducing yourself and explaining that
you are there to help. It would be very helpful to demonstrate competence,
confidence and compassion. Obtain consent to treat before assessing the victim.
Checking for Unresponsiveness
Determine unresponsiveness by tapping the victim on both shoulders and ask
loudly, Are you okay? You are not looking for an answer as much as you are any
kind of response fluttering eyelids, muscle movement, turning to the sound, and so
on. If there is no response, the victim is unresponsive.
Save/Prolong life
Prevent further injury
Lessen human suffering
Lessen medical expense
These steps provide a quick assessment of the victims overall condition. The rest of the
primary survey consists of evaluating the ABCDs- airway, breathing, circulation (pulse and
bleeding), and disability (nervous system disability or altered responsiveness).
a. Establish Airway
Determine whether the airway is open. If the victim is conscious or talking, the
airway is open. If the airway is not open, use either the head-tilt/chin lift
maneuver or the modified jaw thrust maneuver to open it (see later discussions).
Use only the modified jaw thrust maneuver if a spine injury is suspected.
If the victim is unconscious, the tongue can relax, fall back, and block the airway;
the epiglottis can also relax and block the throat. Sometimes, the victims efforts
to breathe can create negative pressure that draws the tongue or the epiglottis,
or both into the airway. In these cases, opening the airway may be all that is
needed to restore breathing.
If you see liquids (such as vomitus) in the mouth, wrap your index and middle
fingers in cloth and sweep the liquid out. If you can see solid foreign objects
(such as broken teeth), quickly hook them out with yo ur index finger.
Use one of the following methods to open the airway.
A. Obstructed airway
B. Head-tilt/Chin-lift Maneuver
C. Jaw Thrust Maneuver
After you have displaced the jawbone forward, support the head carefully without
tilting it backward or moving it side to side.
b. Breathing Assessment
A responsive person is typically breathing adequately.
To determine whether a victim with an altered mental
status is breathing
This process should take only three to five seconds. If
the victim is breathing, maintain an open airway and
place the victim in recovery position. This position helps
both conscious and unconscious victims maintain an
open airway. If you suspect trauma or cervical spine
injury, do not move the victim.
To place the victim in the recovery position, roll her or him onto one side, moving
head, shoulders, and torso simultaneously without twisting. Then flex one leg at
the knee. Place the bottom arm behind the back. Flex the top arm, placing the
hand under the cheek. Continue with your primary survey.
If the victim is not breathing spontaneously or not breathing adequately, begin
artificial breathing immediately (Basic Life Support training needed); continue
until the victim is breathing spontaneously or until you are relieved by trained
emergency personnel.
c. Circulation and Bleeding Assessment
If the victim has no pulse, not breathing or
gasping breathing and unresponsive, begin
cardiopulmonary resuscitation or CPR (Basic Life
Support) immediately.
If the victim is breathing and has a pulse,
continue by checking for serious or profuse
bleeding. Check for bleeding by looking over the
victims entire body for blood (blood-soaked
clothing or blood pooling on the floor or the
ground) and by thoroughly and quickly, but
gently, running your gloved hands over and
under the head and neck, arms, chest and
abdomen, pelvis and buttocks, and legs. Check your gloves often for blood.
If you find major bleeding blood that is spurting or flowing freely control it by
direct pressure, use of pressure points, or elevation. Spurting or steady flow
bleeding is the only kind of bleeding that should be treated during the primary
survey.
Finally, check the victims skin condition. Skin color, especially in light-skinned
people, reflects the circulation under the skin as well as oxygen status. In darkly
pigmented people, changes may not be readily apparent but can be assessed by
the appearance of nail beds, the inside of the mouth and the inner eyelids. If
there is decreased circulation or slow pulse, the skin becomes cool and pale or
cyanotic (blue-gray color).
d. Disability (Spine Injuries) Check
A mistake in the handling of a spine-injury victim could mean a lifetime in a
wheelchair or in a bed for the victim. Therefore, it is very important to carefully
assess all conscious victims sustaining injuries from falls, collapsed structures, or
motor vehicle crashes for possible breaks on the vertebra or damage on the
spinal nerves before being moved. All unconscious victims should be treated as
though they have a spine injury. Suspect a spine injury in all head-injury victims.
Head injuries serve as a clue since the head may have been snapped suddenly
in one or more directions, endangering the spine. Other signs and symptoms
include the following:
-
If you suspect the victim has any possibility of a spinal injury, establish manual
in-line spinal stabilization by bringing the victims head into a neutral in-line
position. Have someone in the scene hold the victims head so that the nose is in
line with the navel (belly button) and the neck is not bent forward or backward.
Instruct the victim not to move his or her neck.
Caution! DO NOT move the victim, even if the victim is in water. Wait for the EMS to arri ve they have the
proper training and equipment. Victims with suspected spine injury require cervical collars and stabilization on a
spine board. It is better to do nothing than to misha ndle a victim with a spine injury.
External Bleeding
Severity of bleeding depends on how fast the blood is flowing, whether it is flowing from
an artery or vein, where the bleeding originated and whether the blood is flowing freely
externally or into a body cavity. Bleeding from an artery is always more serious than
bleeding from a vein or capillary. Arterial blood is bright red and spurts or pulsates out.
But regardless of the type, in controlling external bleeding, the first aid is the same.
Whenever you help a victim who is bleeding or losing other body fluids, take the
following precautions to protect yourself against transmission of infectious disease:
Place a barrier between you and the victims blood. If you can, wear protective
gloves; if not, use plastic wrap, aluminum foil, extra gauze bandages, or a clean,
thick, folded cloth. As a last resort, use the victims own hand.
Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes or handling food while providing first
aid care.
As soon as you finish treating the victim, wash your hands thoroughly with soap
and hot water or an antiseptic cleanser, even if you wore gloves. Use a fingernail
brush to clean thoroughly under your fingernails.
Wash all items that have the victims blood or body fluids on them in hot, soapy
water. Rinse well.
After taking infection-control precautions, follow these steps in controlling the bleeding.
1. Expose the wound by removing or cutting the clothing to see where the blood is
coming from.
2. Place a sterile gauze pad or a clean cloth (such as handkerchief, sanitary napkin
or towel) over the entire wound and apply direct pressure with your fingers or the
palm of your hand. The gauze or cloth allows you to apply even pressure. Be
sure the pressure remains constant. Do not remove blood -soaked dressings;
simply apply new dressings over the old ones.
3. If bleeding does not stop in 10 minutes, the pressure may be too light or in the
wrong location. Press harder over a wider area for another 10 minutes. If the
bleeding is from an arm or leg, while still applying pressure, elevate the injured
area above heart level to reduce blood flow. Elevation allows gravity to make it
difficult for the body to pump blood to the affected extremity. Elevation alone,
however, will not stop bleeding and must be used in combination with direct
pressure over the wound.
4. If bleeding continues, apply pressure at a
pressure point, in combination with direct
pressure over the wound. The two most
accessible pressure points are: the brachial point
in the upper inside arm and the femoral point in
the groin.
5. After the bleeding stops or to free you to attend to other injuries or victims, use a
pressure bandage to hold the dressing on the wound. Wrap a roller gauze
bandage tightly over the dressing and above and
below the wound site.
6. The use of tourniquet to control bleeding should
be a last resort only, when all other methods have
failed. It can be used only on an extremity; using it
may lead to amputation of the extremity below the Control of external bleeding
tourniquet.
by direct pressure.
2.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding generally results from blunt or penetrating trauma or certain fractures
(such as pelvic fracture). Though not visible, internal bleeding can be very serious
even fatal because shock can develop rapidly. You should suspect internal bleeding
based on signs and symptoms as well as the mechanism of injury.
The signs and symptoms of internal bleeding are similar to those of shock: restlessness
and anxiety; cool clammy skin; weak rapid pulse; rapid breathing; and ultimately, a drop
in blood pressure. There may be additional signs and symptoms depending on the
source of bleeding some of which are:
Internal bleeding may not cause signs or symptoms for hours or days and it may be
occurring even if there are no signs and symptoms. For victims of internal bleeding,
activate the EMS system, then:
1. Secure and maintain an open airway, and monitor the ABCDs.
2. Check for fractures; splint if appropriate.
3. Keep the victim quiet. Position and treat the victim for shock by elevating the
feet 8 to 12 inches and covering him or her to maintain body heat. (Do not
elevate the feet if you suspect leg or spine injuries.) If the victim starts to
vomit, position his or her side with face pointing downward to allow for
drainage.
4. Monitor vital signs every 5 minutes until emergency personnel arrive.
Internal bleeding can be a serious cause of shock, and almost always requires surgical
intervention.
VIII. BONE INJURIES
With rare exceptions, fractures and other bone injuries are not life threatening. And
although they are often the most obvious and dramatic injuries a victim suffers, fractures
may not necessarily be the most serious. Therefore , it is important that you complete the
primary survey and manage any life threatening conditions before you look for the signs
and symptoms of bone and joint injury:
Spinal fractures
Fractures of the head and rib cage
Pelvic fractures
Fractures of the lower limbs
Fractures of the upper limbs
The most important first aid care is immobilization of any suspected fracture or
extensive soft-tissue injury. You should immobilize before you apply ice or elevate the
injured part. Treat fracture as follows:
1. Support the injured part; gently remove clothing and jewelry around the injury
site without moving the injured area.
2. Cover any open wounds with sterile dressings to control bleeding and prevent
infection. Gently wipe away dirt and debris, and irrigate the exposed bone end
with clean water.
3. Assess blood flow by checking the distal pulse of the suspected fracture site
and also check the capillary refill by pressing on the nailbeds. Gently squeeze
the victims fingers or toes to assess for nerve function. There may be nerve
damage if the victim cannot feel the squeeze.
4. Immobilize joints above and below the fracture. Wrap from the distal end of
the splint to the proximal end. Splint firmly enough to immobilize but not tightly
enough to stop blood circulation. Follow specific guidelines for splinting listed
in the next section.
5. Check distal pulses and capillary refill after the splint is in place to make sure
circulation is still adequate.
6. Use cold compresses and elevation to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
2.
Splinting
Splints are used to support and immobilize suspected fractures, dislocations, or severe
sprains; to help control bleeding; to help control pain; and to prevent further damage to
tissues from the movement of bone ends. Any victim with suspected fracture,
dislocation, or severe sprain should be splinted before being moved.
a. General Rules of Splinting
Regardless of where you apply the splint, follow these general rules:
b. Improvised Splints
You may have access to commercial splint, but it is much more likely that you will
need to improvise at the scene. A splint can be improvised from a cardboard box,
cane, ironing board, rolled-up magazine, umbrella, broom handle or any other similar
object.
You can also use a self-splint (also called an anatomical splint) by tying or tapping
an injured part to an adjacent uninjured part. For example, splint a finger to a finger,
a toe to a toe, a leg to the other leg, or an arm to the chest. An effective improvised
splint must be
Compress the nerves, tissues and blood vessels under the splint,
aggravating the existing injury and causing new injury
Delay the transport of a victim who has a life-threatening injury
Reduce distal circulation, threatening the extremity
Aggravate the bone or joint injury by allowing movement of the bone
fragments or bone ends or by forcing bone ends beneath the skin surface
Cause or aggravate damage to the tissues, nerves, blood vessels, or
muscles as a result of excessive bone or joint movement
Emergency Move
Under life threatening conditions, you may have to risk injury to the victim in order to
save his or her life. You should make an emergency move only when no other options are
available, such as in conditions involving:
Uncontrolled traffic
Physically unstable surroundings (such as a vehicle that you cannot stabilize and
that it in danger of topping off an embankment)
Exposure to hazardous materials
Fire or threat of fire (always considered a grave threat)
Hostile crowds
The need to reposition the victim in order to provide life-saving treatment (such as
moving to a firm, flat surface to perform CPR)
The need for access (you may need to move one victim to gain access to another)
Weather conditions (you need to control exposure if the weather is very cold, wet or
hot, or windy enough to turn objects into projectiles)
center of the backboard. Use the push and pull technique in moving the
victim; lifting should be avoided.
5. Strap the victim securely to the board using cravats.
6. In moving the victim, make sure to go about it in a synchronized manner.
7. Continue to monitor the victims ABCDs until he or she is completely
transported to a medical facility.
b. One Rescuer Techniques
A rescuer may be required to move a victim on his own during flood, fire, building
collapse, or other life threatening situations.
Walking Assist
A method of moving a victim in which a single rescuer functions as a
crutch in assisting the injured victim to walk
1. Stand at the victims side and drape the victims arm across yo ur
shoulder.
2. Support the victim by placing your arm around his or her waist
3. Using your body as a crutch, support the victims weight as you both
walk.
Blanket Drag
A method of moving an injured victim in which a rescuer places the
victim on a blanket and drags the victim to safety.
1. Spread a blanket alongside the victim; gather half the blanket into
lengthwise pleats.
2. Roll the victim away from you, then tuck the pleated part of the blanket
as far beneath the victim as you can.
3. Roll the victim back onto the center of the blanket on his or her back;
wrap the blanket securely around the victim.
4. Grab the part of the blanket that is beneath the victims head and drag
the victim toward you; if you have to move on a stairway, keep the length
of the victims body in contact with several stairs at once to prevent the
victim from bouncing on the steps.
Shirt Drag
A method of moving a victim in which a single rescuer uses the victims
shirt as a handle to pull the victim (except for a T-shirt).
1. Fasten the victims hands or wrists loosely together, then link them to
the victims belt or pants to keep the arms from flopping or coming out
of the shirt.
2. Grasp the shoulders of the victims shirt under the head; use your
forearm to support both sides of the head.
3. Using the shirt as a handle, pull the victim toward you; the pulling power
should engage the victims armpits, not the neck.
Sheet Drag
A method of moving a victim in which a single rescuer forms a drag
harness out of a sheet, passes it under the victims arms at the armpits, and
uses it to pull the victim.
1. Fold a sheet several times lengthwise to form a narrow, long harness;
lay the folded sheet centered across the victims chest at the nipple line.
2. Pull the ends of the sheet under the victims arms at the armpits and
behind the victims head; twist the ends of the sheet together to form a
triangular support for the head. Be careful not to pull the victims hair.
3. Grasping the loose ends of the sheet, pull the victim toward you.
Firefighters Carry
A method of lifti ng and carrying a victim in which one rescuer carries
the victim over his or her shoulder, is not as safe as most ground level moves
because it places the victims center of mass high-usually at the rescuers
shoulder level- and because it requires a fair amount of strength. It is,
however, preferred if a rescuer will move a victim over irregular terrain.
Unless there is life threatening situations, do not attempt this move especially
if neck or spinal injuries are suspected.
1. Position the victim on his or her back with both knees bent and raised;
grasp the back side of the victims wrists.
2. Stand on the toes of both the victims feet; lean backward and pull the
victim up toward you. As the victim nears a standing position, crouch
slightly and pull the victim over your shoulder, then stand upright.
3. Pass your arm between the victims legs and grasp the victims arm
that is nearest your body.
Illustrations (From US National Safety Council. First Aid and CP R 3 rd Edition.1999. Jones and Bartlett)
One Rescuer Moves
Drags
REFERENCES
Websites
http://www.mmda.gov.ph/
http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/
http://www.jica.go.jp/english/index.html
http://www.euronews.net/nocomment/2011/03/ 13/latest-201103130913-japan/
http://www.imageblogs.org/huge-disaster-japan-tsunami-part1
http://www.imageblogs.org/huge-disaster-japan-tsunami-part2
http://japantsunaminow. wordpress.com/2011/03/20/38/
http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/03/pictures/110315 -nuclear-reactor-japan-tsunamiearthquak e-world-photos-meltdown/
http://pubs.usgs.gov/gip/dynamic/fire.html
http://www.ompongplaza.org.ph/mmeirs.php
http://www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph/images/IEC/tsunami_poster_english.pdf
http://www.ifrc.org/Global/Governance/Policies/firstaid -polic y-en.pdf
http://www.heart.org/idc/groups/heart-public/@wcm/@ecc/documents/downloadable/ucm_317350.pdf
http://www.philheart.org/documents/cprhandsonly.pdf
Text
Hafen, B., Karren, K., Limmer, D., Mistovich, J. An Introduction to First Aid for Colleges and Universities
Eight Edition. 2004. Pearson
rd
US National Safet y Council. First Aid and CP R 3 Edition.1999. Jones and Bartlett
Singapore Civil Def ence Force. Emergency Handbook . 2005.