Common First Aid Situations Security Guards Might Encounter

Security guards play a critical role in maintaining safety and security in various environments, from shopping centres and office buildings to hospitals and event venues. In the course of their duties, they often find themselves at the front lines of potential emergencies.

Being equipped with basic first aid knowledge is essential for their safety and can make a significant difference when they encounter common first aid situations. In this article, we will explore some of the most frequent first-aid situations security guards might face.  

Bleeding and Wound Care  

Cuts and Lacerations: Security guards may come across individuals with cuts and lacerations resulting from accidents, fights, or falls. Immediate action should include cleaning the wound, applying pressure to control bleeding and covering it with a sterile dressing.  

Nosebleeds: A nosebleed can happen suddenly. Security guards can assist by having the person lean forward and pinching their nostrils together, which helps stop the bleeding.

Fractures and Sprains  

Falls and Twists: Security guards might respond to incidents where people have fallen or twisted their limbs, resulting in fractures or sprains. Providing support, immobilising the injured area, and elevating it can help alleviate pain and prevent further injury.  

Respiratory Distress 

Choking: Security guards may need to perform the Heimlich maneuver on someone choking on food or a foreign object. Prompt and effective action can save lives.  

Asthma or Allergic Reactions: Individuals with pre-existing conditions like asthma or allergies may experience sudden respiratory distress. Security guards should know how to assist, including administering an inhaler or epinephrine in severe cases.  

Cardiac Emergencies 

Heart Attacks: Security guards may be the first to respond when someone experiences chest pain or shows signs of a heart attack. Recognising the symptoms and administering CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is crucial until medical professionals arrive.  

Seizures  

Epilepsy or Other Causes: Seizures can be unpredictable. Security guards should protect the individual from harm by moving objects away, placing the person on their side, and providing comfort until the seizure subsides.   

Unconsciousness 

Fainting or Syncope: Security guards might encounter individuals who faint due to various reasons, such as low blood sugar or heat exhaustion. Laying the person flat, elevating their legs, and ensuring proper airflow can aid in their recovery.  

Alcohol or Drug Overdose 

In cases of overdose, security guards should promptly call for medical assistance while ensuring the person’s airway is clear and monitoring their vital signs.  

Burns 

Scalds, Chemical Burns, or Fire-Related Injuries: Security guards may encounter burns from hot liquids, chemicals, or fires. They need to know how to cool the burn with cold water and cover it to prevent infection.  

Heat and Cold-Related Illnesses 

Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke: In hot weather, security guards should be able to recognise the signs of heat-related illnesses and provide immediate treatment by cooling the person and rehydrating them.  

Hypothermia: In cold environments, hypothermia can occur. Security guards should help warm the individual slowly and ensure they are insulated from the cold.  

Medical Emergencies 

Diabetic Emergencies: Security guards may encounter individuals with diabetes experiencing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). Knowing when to administer sugar or call for medical assistance is vital.  

Stroke: Recognising the signs of a stroke, such as facial drooping or slurred speech, is crucial. Security guards should call for emergency services immediately.  

Bites and Stings 

Insect Bites and Snake Bites: In some cases, individuals may be bitten or stung by insects or snakes. Providing first aid involves cleaning the wound, immobilising the affected limb, and seeking medical attention.  

Overcrowding and Crowd Control 

Crush Injuries: During events or gatherings, security guards may encounter situations of overcrowding leading to crush injuries. They should know how to extract individuals safely from the crowd and provide immediate assistance.  

Mental Health Crises 

Anxiety and Panic Attacks: Security guards may encounter individuals experiencing anxiety or panic attacks. Providing reassurance, encouraging deep breathing, and creating a calm environment can help. 

Suicidal Ideation: In severe cases, they may come across individuals in mental health crises. Knowing how to talk to and support these individuals while seeking professional help is critical.  

Final Thoughts 

Security guards are often the first responders in emergencies, making their knowledge of first aid crucial.

Equipped with this knowledge, they can not only ensure the safety and well-being of those around them but also protect themselves while awaiting the arrival of professional medical assistance. Their quick and effective response can often be the difference between life and death.

It is therefore essential for security companies to prioritise first-aid training for their personnel, allowing them to handle these common first-aid situations competently.

Need to get your first aid up to date? At Asset College we offer a variety of first aid courses to suit you. Questions? Get in touch with our friendly course advisors.