How Triage Kits Help Save Lives In A Disaster

By Eric Holm


Triage kits are similar to traditional first aid kits but they are designed to be used in a major disaster that involves multiple victims. The term triage defines the process of assessing injuries to determine which are in need of the fastest attention. This system is used anytime help is needed in a remote area on rough terrain or when there are more people in need of assistance than there are rescue personnel. The goal is to treat as many patients as quickly as possible.

Emergency supplies packed into this type of disaster kit are very familiar to most people but there are some items that are designed specifically to address the unique challenges presented when there are several victims to help at one time. Injuries must be quickly evaluated for severity. Some will be minor enough that treatment can wait awhile. Some victims are categorized as delayed. These people will need to go to a hospital but transport is not urgent. Other injuries will be so severe that transportation to the nearest medical facility must happen immediately. The deceased will be put into body bags and await transportation to the morgue after all living victims have been treated. Disaster supplies needed include brightly colored vests to identify rescue workers and various colors of tape to mark patient status. These medical first aid kits should include some type of emergency manual with advice about conducting a rescue operation.

You will also want to obtain the tools necessary, and a few CPR books, for quick and efficient CPR as well as a portable stretcher or two or three for easy and quick evacuation of the most seriously injured patients.

When a terrible accident or natural disaster occurs, it always pays to be well prepared. Having the proper first aid supplies, like solar blankets and other emergency equipment, can mean the difference between life and death if your community is faced with an emergency.

All first responders will be familiar with analyzing injuries and prioritizing the need for treatment or transportation. During an earthquake, hurricane or flood, volunteers are often needed to help those who are injured. Learning the basics of offering assistance is something that everyone should take the time to do. There is no way of knowing when this knowledge can be used to save a life.




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