First Aid in a Shelter — A Basic Life-Saving Guide

Why First Aid Matters in a Shelter

During a rocket attack, injuries may result from shrapnel, falls, broken glass, or stress reactions. Medical services may be overwhelmed or hospital access may be blocked. Basic first aid knowledge can make the difference between a minor injury and a dangerous complication.

Magen David Adom recommends that at least one person in every household complete a basic first aid course.

Important: This guide is not a substitute for professional training. It provides basic principles for emergency situations. Consider enrolling in a Magen David Adom (MDA) first aid course.

First Aid Kit for Your Mamad

Make sure your kit includes:

• Adhesive bandages in various sizes
• Sterile gauze pads (5x5 cm, 10x10 cm)
• Pressure bandages (Israeli bandage) — at least 2
• Elastic bandage for immobilization
• Medical adhesive tape
• Scissors
• Disposable gloves (at least 4 pairs)
• Antiseptic solution (povidone-iodine or chlorhexidine)
• Antiseptic wipes
• Tourniquet — only if you know how to use it
• Pain relievers (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
• Emergency blanket (aluminum foil)

Core Principles

Bleeding

Mild to moderate bleeding:

1. Rinse the wound with clean water (if available)
2. Apply direct pressure using sterile gauze
3. Maintain pressure for at least 10 minutes continuously — do not lift the gauze to check
4. Once bleeding stops, secure with a pressure bandage
5. Elevate the injured limb above heart level

Severe bleeding:

1. Apply firm, direct pressure on the wound
2. If bleeding does not stop with direct pressure, apply a tourniquet above the wound, toward the body
3. Record the time the tourniquet was applied
4. Do not remove the tourniquet — only qualified medical personnel should do so
5. Seek medical assistance as soon as possible

Burns

1. Move away from the source
2. Cool with running cold water for 10-20 minutes
3. Remove jewelry and clothing not stuck to the burn
4. Cover with dry sterile gauze
5. Do not use ice, butter, toothpaste, or home remedies

Shock

Signs: pale skin, sweating, rapid pulse, confusion, extreme fatigue

1. Lay the person down with legs elevated (unless spinal injury is suspected)
2. Cover with a blanket to maintain body heat
3. Speak in a calm, reassuring tone
4. Do not give fluids if abdominal injury is suspected
5. Seek medical help as soon as possible

Dust and Smoke Inhalation

Following a building impact, concrete dust can cause breathing difficulties:

1. Move away from the dusty area
2. Cover mouth and nose with a damp cloth or N95 mask
3. Sit the person upright
4. If severe breathing difficulty persists — seek medical attention

Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Very common in shelters, especially among children and elderly:

1. Speak in a calm, steady voice
2. Guide slow breathing — 4 seconds inhale, 4 seconds exhale
3. Maintain eye contact
4. Remind them they are in a safe place
5. For children — engage them in an activity (drawing, games)

When to Call for Medical Help

Call 101 (Magen David Adom) immediately for:

• Bleeding that does not stop after 15 minutes of pressure
• Suspected fracture or dislocation
• Large burn (bigger than the palm of a hand) or burns to the face/hands
• Breathing difficulty that does not resolve
• Head injury with vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness
• Chest pain

Advance Preparation

• First aid course — Magen David Adom offers 16-hour courses across Israel covering CPR, bleeding control, fractures, and burns.
• Inspect your first aid kit every 6 months — replace expired items.
• Teach family members — even children from age 10 can learn basic principles.