What to watch for this season
Spring brings a welcome change of pace and a relief from the cold. However, with longer days and an increase in outdoor activities there are some seasonal first aid challenges which we all need to be aware of. While we don’t necessarily want to think about the practicalities of first aid in spring, we do like to enjoying the London parks, explore the countryside, or getting on with the jobs put off over the winter. Being prepared for some of the more common injuries and health issues is pretty important.
Seasonal Allergies and Asthma
With nature reawakening Spring sees trees, grasses and flowers start to release pollen into the air, potentially triggering allergic reactions in many. For those with asthma, these allergens can exacerbate symptoms and potentially lead to asthma attacks.
First Aid Response: Those with known allergies should carry prescribed medications such as antihistamines or inhalers. First aiders should recognise symptoms like wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath as potential signs of an asthma attack requiring immediate attention. Helping someone use their inhaler correctly and knowing when to call 999 for severe reactions can be lifesaving.
Garden and DIY Injuries
While some people like a good old fashioned spring clean, the season also motivates many of us to tackle gardening projects or home improvements, leading to an increase in related injuries. Cuts from garden tools, falls from ladders, and strains from overexertion are particularly common.
First Aid Response: Clean wounds thoroughly with running water, apply pressure to control bleeding, and cover with a sterile dressing. For sprains, remember RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. Apply a cold pack for 20 minutes every few hours, but never directly on the skin. Compression bandages should be firm but not tight enough to impair circulation. Remember that wounds from soil-contaminated tools may need tetanus boosters, particularly important for those who have not had one in the past ten years.
Insect Stings and Bites
As insects become more active, stings and bites increase. While most cause only minor discomfort, some individuals may experience more severe allergic reactions.
First Aid Response: If someone has been stung, remove the stinger (if there is one) by scraping it away with a credit card – we don’t recommend using tweezers as they can squeeze more venom into the wound. Clean the area with soap and water, then apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Make sure to keep an eye out for for signs of an allergic reaction and be prepared to seek emergency medical help if necessary.
Outdoor Exercise Injuries
Spring weather encourages more vigorous outdoor activities, which can lead to injuries for those who may have been less active during winter.
First Aid Response: For muscle strains or sprains, apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes several times daily, use compression bandages, and elevate the affected limb. Recognise signs of heat exhaustion as the weather warms, including heavy sweating, rapid pulse, and dizziness, which require cooling and hydration.
Bicycle and Outdoor Recreation Accidents
Cycling and other outdoor recreational activities become more prevalent with the longer light hours, bringing an increase in related injuries.
First Aid Response: For head injuries, which can occur even with helmet use, assess consciousness and check for other injuries. Any loss of consciousness, confusion, or persistent headache after a head impact warrants immediate medical evaluation. For road rash or abrasions, clean thoroughly with mild soap and water to prevent infection.
Water Safety
As temperatures rise, the many waterways and lakes in the region become popular destinations for wild swimming and other activities. However, water temperatures remain dangerously cold in spring.
Cold water shock can occur even on warm days, potentially leading to drowning. If someone falls into cold water, encourage them to float on their back to recover from the initial shock. For rescues, study the four water rescue techniques; “reach, throw, row, go.” Only enter the water yourself as an absolute last resort, as even strong swimmers can be overwhelmed by cold water.
While this guide provides a starting point on common first aid incidents you might come across this spring, nothing replaces hands-on training. At STS First Aid we have courses that will equip you with the skills to respond when you’re faced with an emergency. Whether you are responsible for workplace safety or planning family outings first aid knowledge saves lives.
By staying alert to these common spring first aid issues and knowing how to respond appropriately, you can help ensure that this season of renewal remains safe and enjoyable for all. Remember, when in doubt, call emergency services, it is better to be cautious than to risk making a situation worse with incorrect actions. Get in touch to learn more and download our training schedule for 2025 at the top of this page.
