14 April is known as National Fire Service Day in INDIA

OBJECTIVE

The motto of Fire Services asserts “ WE SERVE TO SAVE.” A translated idea of original motto in Sanskrit that is “ TRANAY SEVA MAHE.”

Based on this motto there are three priority wise objective concepts.

(A) Primary Objective: SAVING LIFE.

(B) Secondary Objective: SAVE National and Public PROPERTY.

(A) Primary Objective: SAVING LIFE.

This is the most essential part of Fire Service, which requires personnel to be well trained. In case of fire the SMOKE evolving from fire that is the main culprit for taking toll of life contrary to the fire itself. It is the SMOKE that kills first by asphyxiating.

Fire Service personnel are vigorously trained to withstand HOT and HUMID conditions full of SMOKE as found in fire fighting situations and to search for casualties by following proper SEARCH PROCEDURE methods. Modern technology has given products like PVC, FOAM textiles and furnishings that evolve noxious smoke, which have toxic effect. They are a boon for human comforts but if catch fire they prove as instant killers.

Apart from Fire Service there are disasters, building collapse, drowning rescues etc that require immediate life saving.

(B) Secondary Objective: SAVE National and Public PROPERTY.

Fire and Smoke damage and destroy immense National and Public property. In order to check this loss Fire Service has to keep abreast of latest technological developments in fire-fighting so as to curb and check this damage. There are different wings and training programs teaching practical fireman-ship for mitigating fire loss.

Uttar Pradesh Fire Services takes care to extinguish fire at its seat such that property does not get spoiled or damaged because of water used by the Fire Service for fire fighting.

Humanitarian services and salvage services. Services like Ambulance service; offering First Aid helping humans’ and animals in distress to safety are provided by Uttar Pradesh Fire Services. At the fire scene a wing is busy in preserving property from fire, smoke and water due to firefighting. They remove un-burnt property away from fire, provide drainage arrangements and do not allow water logging on floors, ventilate etc.

Every Year 14^th April is observed as Fire Service Day in India as a part to pay homage to those brave Fire Fighters, who sacrificed their live in line to their duty on 14^th April, 1944. Industries observe this day / week as Fire Service day / Week and conducts Training, Drills and Rehearsals to demonstrate the Preparedness to combat emergencies.
The Ship in which accident took place named S S Fort Stikine having capacity of 7000 Tons belonged to Ministry of War and Transport. The ship left Birkinhead – UK on 24^th February, 1944. Convey of 20 other ships with cargo for Karachi and Bombay was loaded. The Karachi Cargo Contained RAF Planes, General Stores, Explosives and Ammunitions. Bombay Cargo was 1395 Tons of Explosives and Ammunitions and Service Stores. The ship reached Karachi on 30^th March, 1944 where a part of Cargo was discharged, leaving void 2, 86,000 cu. Feet in her hold. The new Cargo loaded was cotton, timber, lubricating oil, resin, sulphur and other combustible material. The ship then left Karachi on 9^th April, 1944 and reached Bombay on 9^th April, 1944. No explosives or ammunition were off loaded until the ship has been alongside for 24 hours.
ACCORDING TO THE BYE LAWS OF B.P.T [ Bombay Port Trust]

A Ship carrying explosives is not allowed into docks, but under Rule 88 of the Defense of India Rules, this Bye-Law is suspended in case where Military Officer has given a Certificate of “GRAVE EMERGENCY”. Such a certificate was issued for S S Stikine

The ship was anchored at Victoria Dock Bombay and the Memorable Day, throughout the morning, she was active as cargo hooks swayed a load of commodities from the S S Fort Stikine. Firemen were at Fire Stations as usual shining their brass to keep their fire engines shining.
On 14^th April, 1944, at 1400 hrs
A Whiff of smoke noticed from No.: II hold of the ship. Frantic series of short blast of whistles were heard warning of fire board. The ship crew started pouring musky water in the ship hold. Fire Engines from Alexandra Dock and Air Force Squad arrived immediately and started hose streams in smoking hold to control fire spread. The firemen though aware of the dangerous situation, there was no panic. The prompt arrival of the Fire Engines seemed no reason to think that the fire could not be controlled. Soon it became apparent that the firemen were loosing ground. A call was put through to Mumbai Fire Brigade control for Additional appliances. At 14.30 hrs, a large part of Fire Service was on pliers. Total 32 Water Jets came into action pouring gallons of water into ship hold to quench the fire. The Fire was still gained. There was something preventing the water from reaching the seat of fire. The deck head under the firemen’s feet grew hotter and hotter. The water stream played over the deck head turned into steam. It was now clear that the fire was out of control. Slides and Deck became CHERRY RED, blenching thick black and brown smoke. Flames shot mast high but sound never reached firemen’s ear.
1605 Hrs. ~ Ground Rumbled and EXPLOSION,
S S Fort Stikine Blew Up with its gallant firemen and fire engines disappeared from the face of earth. No. of ships destroyed nearby. At one stroke, the key port of Bombay was taken out of war.
1636 Hrs. ~ SECOND EXPLOSION,
Explosion was heard miles away. Entire Dock upto few kms was in flames. 14 other ships standing aside destroyed. 336 people burned. All nearby/around people and animals died. Many Fire Fighters died or disabled. The Number of persons who died in the Explosion will never be known and figures are conflicting. NFPA Handbook listed 731 dead whereas other sources said 1500 Died/Missing and more than 3000 Injured.
Couple of months after the Disaster, 3083 people had requested claims for damage by Fire or Explosion to their property. 11735 had put up Claim for uninsured properties. 466 Uninsured people claimed as compensation for personal injuries.
The Compensation paid out 850 Lakhs as damage by fire/explosion. Marine Insurance was 150 Lakhs. Paid for uninsured properties was 300 lakhs and personal injuries was 13 lakhs with miscellaneous policies of 4.5 lakhs.
Government of India declared this day of 14^th April every year to be observed as Fire Service Day in recognition of the valor and sacrifice of the courageous FIRE FIGHTERS who laid down their lives in Line of their Duty.
Industries conduct Fire Fighting Training Mock Drills, Fire Drills or Emergency Drills every year on this day to pay homage and create awareness and knowledge about handling emergencies in their fellow workers.

· Fire Service observes Fire Service Day on 14th April every year to commemorate the Fire Service Personnel who laid down their lives during public service. The message of fire prevention is carried to the public by means of demonstrations, film shows, Cultural Programs, distribution of pamphlets, Seminar and lectures. The help of mass media like films, television, Radio and newspapers plays an important role in the successful execution of FIRE PREVENTION MESSAGE. Fire Service Department also organizes lectures/ demonstrations in schools and colleges and in Places where the management requests on fire prevention. Fire prevention education plays a VITAL role in saving the lives and property of people.

WHAT IS FIRE

FIRE TRIANGLE

Fire is an exothermic chemical reaction involving rapid oxidation or burning of a fuel. It needs three elements to occur:
FUEL - Fuel can be any combustible material - solid, liquid or gas. Most solids and liquids become vapor or gas before they burn.
OXYGEN - The air we breathe is about 21 percent oxygen. Fire only needs an atmosphere with at least 16 percent oxygen.
HEAT - Heat is the energy necessary to increase the temperature of the fuel to a point where sufficient vapors are given off for ignition to occur.

CHEMICAL REACTION - A chain reaction can occur when the three elements of fire are present in the proper conditions and proportions. Fire occurs when this rapid oxidation/burning takes place.
Take any one of these factors away, and the fire cannot occur or will be extinguished if it was already burning.

EXPLOSION: It is a FIRE of extreme high speed. In case of Fire we see flames, smoke; feel heat but due to high-speed energy release in case of explosion sound is an added factor.

HOW FIRES ARE CLASSIFIED

CLASS A

Ordinary combustibles or fibrous carbonaceous material, such as wood, paper, clothe, rubber and some plastics.

CLASS B

Flammable or combustible liquids, such as gasoline, kerosene, paint, paint thinners and propane LPG.

CLASS C

Energized electrical equipment, such as appliances, switches, panel boxes and power tools.

CLASS D

Certain combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium these metals burn at high temperatures and give off sufficient oxygen to support combustion. They may react violently with water or other chemicals, and must be handled with care.

HOW TO PREVENT FIRES

Class A — Ordinary combustibles:
Keep storage and working areas free of trash Place oily rags in covered containers. Maintain Good Housekeeping.

Class B — Flammable liquids or gases:
Don't refuel gasoline-powered equipment in a confined space, especially in the presence of an open flame such as a candle, furnace or heater.
Don't refuel gasoline-powered equipment while it's hot.
Keep flammable liquids stored in tightly closed, self-closing, spill-proof containers. Pour from storage drums only what you need.
Store flammable liquids away from spark-producing sources.
Use flammable liquids only in well-ventilated areas.

Class C — Electrical equipment:
Look for old wiring, worn insulation and broken electrical fittings. Report any hazardous condition to your supervisor.
Prevent motors from overheating by keeping them clean and in good working order. A spark from a rough-running motor can ignite the oil and dust in it.
Utility lights should always have some type of wire guard over them. Heat from an uncovered light bulb can easily ignite ordinary combustibles.
Don't misuse fuses. Never install a fuse rated higher than specified for the circuit.
Investigate any appliance or electrical equipment that smells strange. Unusual odors can be the first sign of fire.
Don't overload wall outlets. Two outlets should have not more than two plugs.

Class D — Flammable metals:
Flammable metals such as magnesium and titanium generally take a very hot heat source to ignite; however, once ignited are difficult to extinguish as the burning reaction produces sufficient oxygen to support combustion, even under water.
In some cases, covering the burning metal with sand can help contain the heat and sparks from the reaction. Dry powder extinguisher/TRULY DRY sand in a bucket or box) is quite effective.

WHEN NOT TO FIGHT A FIRE

Never fight a fire: -

If the fire is spreading beyond the spot where it started
If you can't fight the fire with your back to an escape exit
If the fire can block your only escape
If you don't have proper and adequate fire-fighting equipment or agent/extinguishing media.

In any of the above situations,

MOREVER

DON 'T FIGHT THE FIRE YOURSELF
CALL FOR HELP.

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HOW TO EXTINGUISH FIRES IN INCIPIENT STAGE.

Class A - Extinguish ordinary combustibles by cooling the material below its ignition temperature and soaking the fibers to prevent re-ignition.

Use pressurized water, foam or multi-purpose (ABC-rated) dry chemical extinguishers. DO NOT USE carbon dioxide or ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical extinguishers on Class A fires.

Class B - Extinguish flammable liquids, greases or gases by removing the oxygen, preventing the vapors from reaching the ignition source or inhibiting the chemical chain reaction.

Foam, carbon dioxide, ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical, multi-purpose dry chemical, and halon extinguishers may be used to fight Class B fires.

Class C - Extinguish energized electrical equipment by using an extinguishing agent that is not capable of conducting electrical currents.

Carbon dioxide, ordinary (BC-rated) dry chemical, multi-purpose dry chemical and halon* fire extinguishers may be used to fight Class C fires. DO NOT USE water extinguishers on energized electrical equipment.

Multipurpose (ABC-rated) chemical extinguishers leave a residue that can harm sensitive equipment, such as computers and other electronic equipment. Carbon dioxide or halon extinguishers are preferred in these instances because they leave very little residue.

Class D - Extinguish combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium with dry powder extinguishing agents specially designated for the material involved.
In most cases, they absorb the heat from the material, cooling it below its ignition temperature.
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HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Remember the acronym, "P.A.S.S."

...Pull the Pin.

...Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the flames.

...Squeeze the trigger while holding the extinguisher upright.

...Sweep the extinguisher from side to side, covering the area of the fire with the extinguishing agent.

REMEMBER:

Should your path of escape be threatened
Should the extinguisher run out of agent
Should the extinguisher prove to be ineffective
Should you no longer be able to safely fight the fire

...THEN LEAVE THE AREA IMMEDIATELY!

An Extinguisher is a "First Aid" Tool
Don't expect it to control a big fire:

For small, isolated fires only
If the fire is too big don't try to fight it
Short duration
Depending on the size, 10 seconds to 30 seconds of spray
Short range
Depending on the size/type, 5-10 feet

Fire ahead; escape behind
Keep yourself between the fire and your exit.
Spare extinguisher & observer
Have an observer with a spare extinguisher to back you up
If in doubt, bail out!
If you're not sure if you can fight the fire, you can't.

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HOW TO USE AN EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN

A written, up-to-date Emergency Action Plan for your workplace is essential in case of emergency. Make sure you read and understand your department's Emergency Action and Fire Drill Plan.
The plan should contain information about evacuation from the facility, including who is in charge of it.
Primary and secondary escape routes should be outlined for every area of the building. Since stairways are the primary escape route in multiple story buildings, they should not be used for any kind of storage.
Lifts should NEVER be used in fire emergencies and kept grounded.
Emergency Action Leaders should be assigned specific duties, such as verifying that all workers/employees/students/faculty/staff have evacuated.
Pre-fire planning must clearly show the locations of the workstations of the disabled workers. Disabled workers and those with known medical problems such as heart disease or epilepsy should EACH be assigned an Emergency Action Leader to guide them to safety.
All workers who might need assistance during a fire should be identified during planning.
Fire drills should be scheduled to test the Emergency Action Plan. Let the drill be used to find problems before a fire happens, then make the necessary changes.
Emergency Action Plans must be pasted on the inside of room/hall doors.
HOW TO EVACUATE A BURNING BUILDING

The last one out of the room should not lock the door just close it. Locking the door hinders the fire department's search and rescue efforts.
Proceed to the exit as outlined in the Emergency Action Plan.
NEVER use elevators/lifts under any circumstances.
Stay low to avoid smoke and toxic gases. The best air is close to the floor, so crawl if necessary.
If possible, cover your mouth and nose with a damp cloth to help you breathe.
If you work in a building with multiple stories, a stairway will be your primary escape route. Most enclosed stairwells in buildings over two stories are "rated" enclosures and will provide you a safe means of exit; don't panic descend stairs slowly and carefully.
Once in the stairwell, proceed down to the first floor. Never go up.
Once outside the building, report to a predetermined ASSEMBLY area so that a head count can be taken.

WHAT TO DO IF TRAPPED IN A BURNING BUILDING

If you're trying to escape a fire, never open a closed door without feeling it first. Use the back of your hand to prevent burning your palm. If the door is hot, try another exit. If none exists, seal the cracks around the doors and vents with anything available.
If in a dorm room, use wet towels to seal the space under the door and prevent the entry of smoke. Cracks around the door can be sealed with masking tape if necessary.
If trapped, look for a nearby phone and call the fire department, giving them your exact location.
If breathing is difficult, try to ventilate the room, but don't wait for an emergency to discover that window can't be opened.

If on an upper floor and your window is of a type that CANNOT be opened, DON 'T break it out- you'll be raining glass down on rescuers and people exiting the building. If you can't contact the fire department by phone, wave for attention at the window. Don't panic.

WHAT TO DO IF SOMEONE CATCHES ON FIRE

If you should catch on fire:

STOP - where you are

DROP - to the floor

ROLL - around on the floor

This will smother the flames, possibly saving your life.

Just remember to STOP, DROP and ROLL.

If a co-worker catches on fire, smother flames by grabbing a blanket or rug and wrapping them up in it. That could save them from serious burns or even death.

SUMMARY

KNOWLEDGE - AWARENESS - PREPARATION

These are your keys to prevent fires and survive from them wherever they occur.

DO YOU KNOW

· When Fire starts smoke SPREADS and KILLS people.

· When sofas, foam, upholstery, PVC burn TOXIC smoke evolves that KILLS INSTANTLY in less than two minutes.

· If worn clothes catch fire you should STOP, DROP and ROLL.

· If you smell cooking gas it must be leaking. Ventilate at floor level because LPG is HEAVIER than air.

· Smoke is hot and lighter than air and rises up. In case of fire CRAWL on floor for cool air to stop suffocation.

· If fire outbreaks in your living room you must leave the room immediately and close the door BEHIND you.

· In a fire outbreak SMOKE, PANIC, SHOCK and SUFFOCATION are the main killers. Do not shout or run. This tends to cause panic and asphyxiation.

· That you must not use LIFTS in case of fire, as it is the pathway for smoke, embers, and flame.

· Maximum numbers of fires that occur in our state are in RURAL areas.

· Most URBAN fires are due to electricity or LPG.

· Simplest and most useful fire-fighting equipment for a home is a BLANKET and a BUCKET full of WATER.

· Once a fire takes hold, there is only one completely safe place to be-OUTSIDE. If trapped inside getting out is the priority.

· In unventilated fires CARBON MONOXIDE evolves that kills instantly. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless and tasteless.

· You must COMMUNICATE the incident once you are out in open that is TOTAL SAFETY. Call the Fire Service. The services of the Fire Brigade are provided FREE OF COST DIAL 101irrespective of the size of the fire.

· Emergency number for calling Fire101and Police100 is FREE OF COST, even when you use the P.C.O.

Help the Firemen to Help You

Remember, FIREMAN IS YOUR FRIEND.

Give way to fire engines to enable them to reach at the incident quickly.

Allow them to use your telephone to communicate with the control room.

Don’t park your cars/truck close to fire hydrants/underground static water tanks.

Guide firemen to water sources i.e. Tube wells, pounds, static tanks etc. in case of fire.

Fire Precautions in High Rise Buildings

The threat of fire in High Rise Buildings is constant and if adequate precautionary measures are not taken, the consequences can be grave. Therefore, observe the following basic precautions.

Do’s

Ensure Good House Keeping.

Always use ashtrays while smoking and deposit-smoked butts in them after extinguishing. Smoke in areas especially designated for smoking.

All receptacles for waste should be emptied at regular intervals. Faculty electrical appliances should be repaired/replaced immediately.

Switches and fuses should conform to correct rating of circuit. Welding /Cutting jobs should be carried out under strict supervision.

Keep smoke/Fire Check doors closed.

Keep means of escape clear of obstructions.

Fire Rescue drills should be carried out at regular intervals.

Impart elementary fire fighting training to occupants.

Emergency organization must be setup.

Fire Precautions in Residential Area.

Do’s

Don’ts

Keep your house neat and clean.
Keep matches, lighters and crackers away from children. Handle crackers with care,
Use metal ashtrays while smoking to dispose off matches, used cigarettes and bidis.
Papers, clothes and flammable liquids should be kept away from heaters/stoves/open choolahs.
Keep the escape routes/staircases free of any obstructions.
Use only one electrical appliance in one socket.
Keep LPG stoves on raised platform never on the floor.
Turn off the cylinder valve and burned knob of the gas stove after cooking.
Keep a bucket of water handy while using fireworks. In case of Burn Injuries Due to Fire, Pour Water Over Burn Till Pain Subsides.

Don’t meddle with electrical fixtures like plugs, wires switches and sockets.
Don’t leave spray cans on or near heaters or in direct sunlight they could explode.
Don’t throw matches, cigarette ends or pipe ash into waste pipe baskets.
Don’t place oil lamps, agarbattis or candles on the floor or near combustible material.
Don’t wear loose; flowing clothes while cooking specially avoid synthetic clothing.
Don’t keep crackers in you pocket or use fireworks inside the house.
Never light fireworks under confinement in a metal container.
Never light flowerpot (anar) while holding it.
Never reach for any article over a fire.
Don’t refill a burning stove. And never leave open fire unattended

Fire Safety Precautions Against Electricity

About 60% fires are of electric origin on account of electric short circuit, overheating, overloading, use or nonstandard appliances, illegal tapping of electrical wires, improper electrical wiring, carelessness and ignorance etc.

Do’s

Use I.S.I. certified appliances.

Use good quality fuses of correct rating, miniature circuit breakers and earth leakage circuit breakers.
Use one socket for one appliance.
Switch off the electric supply of the fire affected areas.
Fuses and switches should be mounted on metallic cubicles for greater safety against fire.
Replace broken plugs and switches.
Keep the electrical wires away from hot and wet surface.
Switch off appliance after use and remove the plug from the socket.
Switch off he ‘Main’ switch when leaving home for a long duration. Don’t use substandard fixtures, appliances.
Never have temporary or naked joints on wiring.
Don’t lay wires under carpets, mats or doorways. They get crushed, resulting in short circuiting.
Don’t allow appliances cords to dangle.
Don’t place bare wire ends in a socket

Don’ts

Don’t use substandard fixtures, appliances.
Never have temporary or naked joints on wiring.
Don’t lay wires under carpets, mats or doorways. They get crushed, resulting in short circuiting.
Don’t lay wires under carpets, mats or doorways. They get crushed, resulting in short circuiting.
Don’t allow appliances cords to dangle.
Don’t place bare wire ends in a socket

Fire Safety in Respect of Temporary Structures/Pandals during public/private functions.

The height of the ceiling of the pandal should not be less than 3 meters.
No synthetic materials or synthetic ropes should be used in such structures.
Margins of at least 3 meters should be kept on all sides-away from any preexisting walls or buildings.
No structure should be erected underneath any live electrical line.
Structure should be erected reasonably away from railway lines; electric substations, furnaces or other hazardous places and a minimum distance of 15 meters should be maintained.
Exits on all sides of the pandal shall be kept sufficiently wide (minimum 1.5 meters).
There should be provision for stand by emergency light. First-aid fire extinguishers or water buckets must be installed at strategic points inside and outside of the pandal.
No combustible material likes wood shavings; straw, flammable and explosive chemicals should be permitted to be stored in the vicinity or inside the pandal.
No fireworks display /open flames of any kind should be permitted close to the temporary structure/pandal.

Kitchen must be segregated by providing separation walls of noncombustible material (G.I. Sheets) from the remaining area of the temporary structure.

· The public should ensure that the auditorium/stadiums, which they are booking for various functions are having valid No Objection certificate from fire department. Therefore, such functions be held in those premises only, which are having clearance from fire service

Fire Protections in Industries

Owing to the rapid growth of industries, complexities of fire risk have increased enormously. Incidents of such fire risk have increased enormously. Incidents of such fires not only result in huge loss of fire and property but also cause dislocation of work, loss of production, unemployment and so many other kinds of suffering, If adequate fire prevention measures are taken the losses can be minimized.

Do’s

Don’ts

Store flammable liquids gases, solvents, chemicals in stable racks, correctly labeled.
Keep chemicals in cool and dry place away from heat.
Where hazardous chemicals are used/stored, ensure adequate ventilation and prohibit smoking.
Maintain good house keeping. Ensure cigarettes are extinguished before disposal
Use fuses and circuit breakers of correct capacity.
Before welding operation, all traces of flammable material must be removed to a safe distance.
Welding/Hot work should be carried out under proper fire watch.
Keep all machinery clean and lubricate it to avoid friction and overheating.
Regular fire drills should be carried out.

Don’t smoke in prohibited areas.
Don’t place obstruction in means of escape.
Don’t use damaged cords and avoid temporary connections.
Don’t plug to many electrical appliances in one socket

Fire Precautions for Children

Children are our most valued possessions. They are also among the most vulnerable to accidents and fire. The following safety hints shall be borne in mind.

Never leave children alone near an open fire, heater or in kitchen.

Keep matchsticks and cigarette lighters out of reach of children.

Maintain screens on combustion heater or other heating appliance.

Keep electrical plugs and sockets covered so that children do not put wires, metal instruments, and their fingers into it. THEATRE STH

Escape Plan

Does every member of your family know your plan for escape in the event of fire?
Does everyone know at least two ways out of each room?
Have you agreed on a meeting place in front of your home where you will gather to wait for the fire department?
Does everyone know to how to get out first, and then call for help from a neighbor's phone or call box?
Does everyone understand that they should never, ever go back inside a burning building?
Has your family practiced escaping through smoke by getting down on hands and knees and crawling to the nearest exit? (Make sure everyone understands that they should use the exit "free from smoke or flames if they can.)
Does everyone in your family know how to stop, drop, and roll on the ground to smother flames if clothes catch fire?

HOW YOU CAN SAVE YOURSELF IF AN EARTHQUAKE STRIKES.

· If you are indoors when tremors begin, do not rush out into the streets.

· Take cover beneath a strong desk, table or bed. If no heavy furniture is available, stand in a doorway – the frame will provide some protection.

· Keep away from windows. The vibrations of the shock or movement in the building could shatter them.

· If you are outdoors when the earthquake strikes, keep away from tall buildings, trees, power lines and any other high structure, which might collapse.

· Run into an open space as far from any high structure as possible. If here is no such space take cover in a doorway.

· Do not take refuge in cellars, basements, subways, bridges or underground tunnels. The exit could become blocked by debris, or the tunnels themselves could cave in.

· If you are in a car, stop the vehicle and dive for the floor, crouching below seat level if possible. If you are in an open area and the earthquake is severe enough to throw you off balance, lie flat.

· When the initial tremor is over, STAY OUT. Several further tremors may follow the first one at unpredictable intervals. Wait until the rescue teams give the all clear.

· In the aftermath of a major earthquake, fires may start from overturned burners, LPG cylinders and broken power lines, and pollution could result from shattered sewer lines. Water is likely to be in short supply, too, or cut off entirely because of broken mains.

· Check your own home for signs of damage, and listen to radio or TV broadcasts for official instructions and warnings.

· If you have to go outside, keep well away from houses or any other structures, which may have weakened by the shocks. They could collapse without warning.

· Earthquake gives no clue of its occurrence but it has been established that all pets start behaving abnormally prior to its occurrence, which could be treated as an indication.

DEEPAVALI

Deepavali is the festival of lights, fun, frolic and fireworks. Old and young alike love and enjoy the splendor and sparkle of fireworks.

Deepavali is a cause of concern too, and brings in its wake pain and anguish, injuries and deaths, fires and explosions. Reason the uninhibited use of patakas. Patakas enhance fun and frolic if handled carefully. But in reality they are not. Deepawali could be blissful if the elderly adhere to sensible precautionary measures.

Fire safety and prevention habits and practices can prevent fires from starting and, should they occur, limit their damage.

HELP CELEBRATE SAFELY.

DO'S

(A) IN GENERAL

1. Different patakas mean different hazards. Read the instructions on each one carefully (by flashlight, never an open flame). Follow all SAFETY PRECAUTIONS issued with the patakas properly.

2. Buy patakas that are LEGALLY manufactured.

3. Sparklers need careful handling. Light any pataka ONE AT A TIME PLEASE and don't rush. Keep them at arm's length; and put each spent one into a bucket of water as soon as it is gone out.

4. Keep the patakas as FAR AWAY from the body as possible.

5. Keep the fire works on an EVEN SURFACE so that they do not tilt and fall over during operation.

6. Use a long LIGHTING STICK for lighting patakas. Light the tip of each pataka at arm's length showing side of the body, using a candle or Agarbatti. Once ignited show your back and flee calmly.

7. Pour COLD WATER over the burnt body part for 10 minutes to cool down.

8. Keep YOUR DISTANCE from those operating pataka.

9. Immediately WASH THE EYES with running water if a burn is suspected and continue washing till the burning sensation lasts.

(B) IN PUBLIC

1. Encourage people to WATCH PUBLIC DISPLAYS of Fireworks.

2. An elderly person should ACCOMPANY children below 18 years for buying crackers.

3. Pataka shops should be at locations earmarked by the AUTHORITY.

4. If you have the chance to get together with some other families, try to go to the home with the BIGGEST OPEN SPACE and safest surroundings.

5. Persuade friends and families in your locality to gather together and enjoy COMBINED pataka display at one place under controlled conditions. It will lead to a nosedive in accidents, easier on the pocket and, yes lots of fun.

6. Jhuggi/Jhopadi and slum dwellers must be constantly vigilant in GROUPS.

7. Factories where it may not be possible to remove/cover the combustible material, lying in the open. It would be in the interest of owners to keep VISUAL SURVEILLANCE particularly during evening hours till midnight in their factories, godowns, open storages, yards etc. on Deepawali.

1. On “ Laxmi Pujan ” REMOVE all combustible materials like curtains, paper, synthetic and other clothes, oil, ghee from the vicinity of puja place AFTER the “ Laxmi Pujan ” and before going to bed.

2. All ceilings made of combustible material like pual, hay, wood etc should be DAMPENED with water.

3. Two buckets full of WATER must always be kept handy for any emergency, and for putting used sparklers into. To extinguish any fire in the incipient stage as well as to cool down any burn injury. Flow water over it until the BURNING SENSATION AND PAIN SUBSIDES.

4. Windows opening towards the street should be kept SHUT/CLOSED.

5. Wear CLOSE-FITTING clothes of thick material when operating patakas.

6. Decorate and light Diyas or candles at SAFE PLACES. Remove all combustible products near the burning Diyas/candles.

7. See that electrical lighting and decorations are safe and does not OVERLOAD the supply board.

8. Before Deepawali REMOVE all junk from the terrace, gallery and staircase.

9. Store your fireworks safely: in a CLOSED METAL BOX , somewhere cool and dry, out of reach of children.

10. Store them away from ALL SOURCES OF HEAT, until the time they're needed.

11. Pets hate bangs and flashes and get very frightened on fireworks night, so keep all your PETS INDOORS and close all the curtains to make things calmer for them.

12. Note that telephone number 101 is the FIRE CONTROL NUMBER.

13. Always enjoy patakas WITH AN ADULT.

14. Check the area before igniting patakas to be sure all flammable and combustible materials are removed.

15. Ensure that children don’t engage in DANGEROUS PRANKS such as throwing lighted patakas or sparklers at others, or try to make fireworks themselves.

1. At the end of your fireworks celebrations, DOUSE THE 'DUDS' with lots of water; keep it soaking in a bucket of water.

DON'TS

(A) IN GENE RAL:

1. Keep away from unlabelled and local patakas about whom you are less informed. It is ILLEGAL.

2. Never touch a cracker after it has been lighted or lift it to SEE WHY IT HAS NOT gone off. This is a very dangerous practice. If the cracker doesn't go off, don't go back to it - it could still be live, and could go off unexpectedly in your face.

3. Do not wear LOOSE AND FLOW ING CLOTHES while lighting fire works.

4. Patakas should not be RE-LIT.

5. They should not be put into COMBUSTIBLE CONTAINERS.

6. They should not be held in the HAND OR CLOSE TO THE FACE for operation.

7. Patakas should not be DISSEMBLED OR REASSEMBLED and the gunpowder should not be burned. Never experiment, modify, or attempt to make your own fireworks.

8. Patakas should not be sold to children UNDER-18 YEARS.

9. Never carry patakas in your POCKET.

10. Never shoot patakas in METAL/GLASS CONTAINERS.

11. For big fireworks the shooter should better wear EYE PROTECTION and never have any part of the body over the firework.

12. Do not light patakas by BENDING OVER them.

(B) IN PUBLIC:

1. Never light patakas like rockets etc. in BUSY PLACES, near huts, petrol pumps, oil depots, sawmills, pandals or near places where inflammable materials are available.

2. Don’t light patakas on PUBLIC THOROUGHFARE.

3. Don't put others IN DANGER at your personal risk.

4. Never ignite aerial fireworks where OVERHEAD OBSTRUCTIONS (trees, eaves, wires, etc.) may interfere with trajectory into open air space.

5. Never ignite aerial fireworks near an OPENING TO A BUILDING. An open garage door or window could allow aerial fireworks to fly into the structure and cause a fire.

6. Never use patakas INSIDE OR IN A VEHICLE.

7. Patakas should not be AIMED OR THROWN at people or animals.

8. Never throw left over fireworks ONTO A BONFIRE.

9. Fireworks /Crackers must not be operated in VICINITY of explosive public places like petrol pumps, LPG gas Godowns/pandals and patakashop.

1. Do not allow SMALL CHILDREN to light fire works all by themselves. Elders must supervise children when lighting fire works.

2. Do not store too many patakas AT ONE PLACE and never near a burning candle/diya.

3. Watch what you wear: LOOSE CLOTHING can very easily catch fire, and should not be worn near any fire or fireworks. Long dangly scarves can be risky too.

4. Don't keep patakas under STAIRS OR IN A PASSAGEWAY.

5. Never ignite fireworks while HOLDING THEM. Put them down, and then ignite them show your back and walk away.

6. Never CONFINE fireworks for igniting.

7. Never light fireworks INSIDE THE HOUSE.

8. Don't put fireworks in any CONTAINER to ignite.

9. Never ASSUME an ignited firework, that fails to explode, is safe to approach. A delayed explosion has injured many people. Any malfunctioning fireworks should be abandoned.

10. Never MIX anything with the contents of the fireworks or make fireworks at home. Don’t EXPERIMENT with fireworks.

11. Firecrackers, ‘bombs’, anars (flowerpots) should not be lighted HOLDING THEM. It is always safer to light them from the side without bending over them and quickly moving away, before they burst.

12. Don’t allow children to keep fireworks in their POCKETS.

13. Don’t allow children to light crackers near the old JUNK and piled items on the terrace.

14. Fireworks /Crackers are for your panorama. Never try to play MISCHIEF with them as it may harm others. Children have ideas to tie crackers onto the tail of a dog for instance.

15. Don’t allow children to dangerous PRANKS such as throwing lighted Crackers or sparklers (phuljhadis) at others and down from the top of any building or try to make crackers indigenously.

16. Don’t allow children to light fireworks/Crackers in a DANGEROUS MANNER like lighting Anar on the palm.

17. Do not LOOK SKYWARDS at a Rocket; it might land back at you.

18. NEVER RUB the eyes if you suspect an injury.

19. Never give any MEDICINE ORALLY in case of burn injury.

DANGEROUS ACTIVITIES ON DEEPAWALI

1. IGNORING operational safety precautions.

2. Purchasing locally made ILLEGAL patakas.

3. Lighting patakas INDOORS/CONFINED SPACE/IN AUTOMOBILE.

4. Lighting patakas on UNEVEN SURFACES.

5. Using an OPEN FLAME like matchstick, lighter for lighting patakas by bending and exposing whole body straight over them.

6. BEING IN CL OSE PROXIM ITY of those operating patakas.

7. RUBBING THE EYES if a burn is suspected.

8. ALLOWING children below 18 years to buy patakas from the market.

9. Locating Pataka shops ANYWHERE DESIRED.

10. UNGUARDING Jhuggi/Jhopadi and slums on Deepavali.

11. Lighting TWO OR MORE patakas at same time.

12. UNGUARDING Factories where it may not be possible to remove/cover the combustible material, lying in the open.

13. NOT REMOVING combustible materials like curtains, paper, synthetic and other clothes, oil, ghee from the vicinity of puja place AFTER the “Laxmi Pujan” or before going to bed.

14. LEAVING OPEN Windows opening towards the street.

15. Lighting Diyas or candles NEAR COMBUSTIBLE products.

16. OVERLOADING the electrical supply board with excessive lighting and decorations.

17. NOT REMOVING all junk from the terrace, gallery and staircase before Deepawali.

18. CARELESS STORAGE of fireworks near hot sources and combustible materials in reach of children.

19. ALLOWING TEENS to enjoy patakas without adult supervision.

20. Children engaged in DANGEROUS PRANKS such as throwing lighted patakas or sparklers at others, or try to make fireworks themselves.

21. Fooling around with patakas like:

· Keeping patakas in the POCKET. A stupid and dangerous activity.

· Throwing fireworks AT OTHERS-dangerous and illegal.

· Patakas and alcohol-pose an ADDED DANGER when there are fireworks and bonfires around.

· Igniting flying fireworks in WINDY conditions.

· Take unnecessary risks while lighting patakas, just to SHOW OFF.

· Igniting from close QUARTERS.

Posted 4th April 2012 by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL

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Promotion of Environment, Health Safety and Quality for Good Governance of good govt., Organization, Company, Industry, Institution DEDICATED TO NAGARJUNA GROUP (NFCL, NOCL, NACL) WE ARE HIGHLY THANKFUL TO Shri KS RAJU SIR- CHAIRMAN, Shri RAHUL RAJU SIR -MANAGING DIRECTOR , Shri P.P. SIGH and Shri RS NANDA SIR, Shri R. RAGHAVAN, Shri GVS ANAND, Shri. VK GROVER,Shri S SUNDER, Shri PC MOHAN, SHRI GVRK RAJU,Shri JK PRASAD ,Shri PHN REDDY, Shri BHSN RAJU AND ASSOCIATES

Apr
8
‘Basic has Played a Proactive and Constructive role in Combating Global Climate Change and International Climate Change Negotiations’: Javadekar

Ministry of Environment and Forests07-April, 2016 18:05 IST
‘Basic has Played a Proactive and Constructive role in Combating Global Climate Change and International Climate Change Negotiations’: Javadekar
Joint Statement issued at the Conclusion of the 22nd Basic Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change

India has said that the BASIC group has played a proactive and constructive role in combating global climate change and in the international climate change negotiations, which led to the successful adoption of the Paris Agreement. Addressing a joint press conference with Ministers of BASIC group here today, Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar said that it is an opportune time for the BASIC group to renew its efforts in the post-Paris period, invigorating the steps taken domestically, as well as internationally to address climate change. “I feel glad that the Paris Agreement recognizes the imperatives of sustainable patterns of consumption and production, with developed countries taking the lead, and climate justice in strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change in the context of sustainable development and efforts to eradicate poverty”, Shri Javadekar said.

Shri Javadekar also emphasized that the BASIC group has been a strong advocate of the principle of ‘Differentiation” and operationalization of Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) in the climate change regime. The Minister also highlighted that BASIC countries have started taking pre-2020 actions, more than what is expected and much beyond their capacity. Shri Javadekar expressed the hope that the developed world will make an all-out effort to mobilize $ 100 billion, which was an essential feature of Paris agreement. A Joint Statement was made at the end of the meeting. The following is the text of the Joint Statement at the conclusion of the 22nd BASIC Ministerial meeting on Climate Change:

1. The 22nd BASIC Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change was held in New Delhi, India on and April 6-7, 2016. The meeting was attended by Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Mr. Prakash Javadekar, Special Representative for Climate Change of China, Mr. Xie Zhenhua, Under Secretary-General for the Environment, Energy, Science and Technology, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Brazil, Ambassador Antonio Marcondes, and Chief Director, International Climate Change Relations and Negotiations of South Africa, Mr. Maesela Kekana,.

2. Ministers welcomed the adoption of the Paris Agreement under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and acknowledged that the 21st Conference of Parties (COP-21) held in Paris in December 2015 marked a milestone in global climate cooperation. They underlined that the Paris Agreement is meant to enhance the implementation of the Convention and is comprehensive, balanced and ambitious. It also reiterates the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities (CBDR & RC).

3. Ministers appreciated the role of the French Presidency in carrying all Parties together and ensuring the successful adoption of the Paris Agreement at COP-21. The Ministers also commended the role of BASIC and G-77 & China groups in negotiating the Paris outcomes and securing interests of the developing countries. They reaffirmed the commitment of BASIC countries to G-77 & China and expressed their appreciation of South Africa’s chairing of the group.

4. Ministers underlined that the Paris Agreement recognizes the imperatives of sustainable patterns of consumption and production, with developed countries taking the lead, and the importance of climate justice, in strengthening the global response to the threat of climate change.

5. Ministers commended the efforts by BASIC countries and other developing countries in tackling climate change, both pre- and post-2020, and emphasised that these represent far more ambitious efforts compared to their respective responsibilities and capabilities.

6. The BASIC countries look forward to signing the Paris Agreement on 22 April 2016 during the High-Level Signature Ceremony convened by the Secretary-General of the United Nations. They expressed their will to initiate necessary domestic processes for ratification, acceptance or approval as soon as possible with a view to facilitate the timely entry into force of the Agreement, and urged other countries to do so as well.

7. Ministers reiterated the importance of pre-2020 actions in building trust amongst the Parties and noted with concern the pending ratification by many Annex I Parties of the Doha Amendment, which establishes the second commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol. They urged Annex I Parties to both ratify and revisit pledges of Quantified Emission Limitation and Reduction Objectives (QELROs) to close the emission gap. They also emphasized that raising pre-2020 ambition on other pillars of the Convention (viz. adaptation, finance and technology and capacity building support) will pave the way for the implementation of the Paris Agreement.

8. The Ministers reiterated that Parties’ contributions, termed as ‘Nationally Determined Contributions’ (NDCs), are to be country driven and comprehensive. The Ministers reflected on the importance of adaptation and means of implementation as key elements of Parties efforts under the Agreement.

9. The Ministers stressed the differentiated obligations in mitigation actions of developed and developing countries, as well as for the provision of support, and emphasized that developed countries should continue to take the lead. They also recalled that the Paris Agreement specifically mentions that the time frame for peaking will be longer for developing countries. Ministers felt that proper anchoring of differentiation in contributions of developed and developing countries is a sound basis for ambitious actions.

10. Ministers also underscored the need for financial support to developing countries for effective implementation of their mitigation and adaptation actions through accelerating the work on the new Technology Framework and the Technology Mechanism including its assessment for a meaningful and tangible dissemination, transfer and deployment of technology from developed to developing countries. They also emphasized on the role of innovation and international cooperation in enhancing global actions.

11. Ministers welcomed the setting up of the Paris Committee, a new institutional mechanism for enhancing capacity building activities in developing countries, and urged developed countries to provide financial support for capacity building in developing countries.

12. Ministers emphasized the importance of building on the existing transparency framework under the Convention, for effective implementation of the Paris Agreement and reiterated the importance of providing support and flexibility to developing countries, including through the Capacity-building Initiative for Transparency, in fulfilling their obligations under the proposed enhanced transparency framework. Ministers further underlined that transparency of support is a fundamental aspect of the implementation of the Paris Agreement and that the consideration of this issue should not be outsourced to other entities. They also reflected on the need to focus on the qualitative aspects of climate finance on transparency of support.

13. Ministers identified means of implementation in the context of provision of finance, technology transfer and capacity building support as the most important enablers of action for developing countries. Ministers expressed their concern over the lack of adequate support in this respect and urged developed countries to honour their obligations under the Convention.

14. Ministers also urged developed countries to scale up their level of financial support with a complete road map to achieve the goal of jointly providing USD 100 billion per year by 2020. Reiterating the role of public finance, Ministers called upon developed countries to fulfill their pledges to the Green Climate Fund.

15. Ministers noted that the next session of the SBI, SBSTA and Ad Hoc Working Group on the Paris Agreement will be deliberating on a number of issues related to the Paris Agreement. In this regard, Ministers hoped that issues under these bodies will receive balanced treatment and pledged their support to the incoming COP Presidency of Morocco to ensure a successful COP-22.

16. The BASIC countries expressed concern that the draft proposal on Global Market Based Measures (GMBM) under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) may impose inappropriate economic burden on developing countries, where the international aviation market is still maturing. They urged the ICAO to develop climate change measures in a manner that is consistent with the principles of CBDR & RC, and to align the GMBM with the relevant provisions of the Paris Agreement.

17. Ministers agreed to further strengthen the cooperation and solidarity among the BASIC countries.

18. Ministers welcomed the offer of South Africa to host the 23rd BASIC Ministerial meeting.

***

HK
(Release ID :138685)

Posted 31 minutes ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
NRDC signs Licence Agreement with M/S Nagarjuna Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. for Soil Moisture Indicator of Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), as part of “Make In India”

Ministry of Science & Technology08-April, 2016 12:56 IST
NRDC signs Licence Agreement with M/S Nagarjuna Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd. for Soil Moisture Indicator of Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR), as part of “Make In India”

Chairman and Managing Director, NRDC, Dr. H. Purushotham informed that NRDC has been appointed as the nodal agency for commercialising/ licensing the technical know-how for manufacture of Soil Moisture Indicator in the country.

Soil Moisture Indicator is a simple and user-friendly electronic device developed by the Sugarcane Breeding Institute, an Institute under the Indian Council of Agriculture Research (ICAR) System located in Coimbatore. The Intellectual Property Rights of the technology are being protected under Indian Patent and Design Acts.

The technical know-how has now been licensed to M/s Nagarjuna Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd., Hyderabad. The company plans to take this technology forward to all the parts of the country through a network of dealers and also promoting through different support schemes of the Department of Agricultural and other Allied Departments in various States of the country. This initiative of NRDC aids the “Make in India” Mission of the Government of India. NRDC has licensed more than 200 technologies to Start-ups, MSMEs and Corporates in the Agriculture Sector.

The formal Licence Agreement was signed by Dr. H. Purushotham, CMD on behalf of NRDC and Smt. Neeta Zanvar, Director of M/s Nagarjuna Agro Chemicals Pvt. Ltd.

*****

KSP/VM
(Release ID :138698)

Posted 45 minutes ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
PM greets people across the country, celebrating various festivals on the advent of New Year
PM greets people across the country, celebrating various festivals on the advent of New Year

The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has greeted people across the country, celebrating various festivals on the advent of New Year.

"Greetings to people across India celebrating the advent of the New Year. May this new year bring joy and prosperity.

Wishing all my Sindhi friends on the auspicious occasion of Cheti Chand. We bow to Lord Jhulelal and seek his divine blessings.

Gudi Padwa wishes to all friends in Maharashtra. Praying for a phenomenal year, full of happiness and success.

On the special day of Ugadi, my greetings to everyone. I hope the new year brings peace and prosperity in our society.

Navreh greetings to my fellow citizens. I pray that the coming year enhances the spirit of happiness and harmony in our lives.

Sajibu Cheiraoba greetings to the wonderful people of Manipur. May the new year fulfil all your wishes", the Prime Minister said.
Posted 48 minutes ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
“India Water Week” is a key initiative for sharing best practices and exchanging ideas to identify timely solutions to critical water issues confronting our world today, says president

President's Secretariat08-April, 2016 15:39 IST
“India Water Week” is a key initiative for sharing best practices and exchanging ideas to identify timely solutions to critical water issues confronting our world today, says president
The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee addressed the valedictory function of India Water Week-2016 today (April 8, 2016) at New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, the President said that he saw “India Water Week” itself - as a key initiative for sharing best practices and exchanging ideas to identify timely solutions to the critical water issues confronting our world today. It is heartening that there has been a good response to the exhibition that concurrently been held - showcasing technologies and solutions for improving efficiencies in water use. He thanked the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation for organizing this event – and appreciate the contribution of partner Ministries of the Central and State Governments.

The President said that he cannot emphasize enough the value of a multi-disciplinary approach to water. We must prioritize resilient eco-systems, modern data management systems and innovations in technology. Our laws should inculcate a respect for the principle that water is a common legacy. We must treasure it, utilize it in a manner that enables us to pass it on - intact if not enhanced to our Generation Next. Government’s Krishi Sinchayee Yojana, Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan and Integrated Watershed Management Programme are important programmes to achieve this objective.

Among the dignitaries present on the occasion were Shri Suresh Prabhu, Union Minister of Railways; Sushri Uma Bharti Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation; Shri Chaudhary Birender Singh, Union Minister of Rural Development, Drinking Water & Sanitation and Panchayati Raj; Smt. Vasundhra Raje, Chief Minister of Rajasthan and Shri Sanwar Lal Jat, MoS for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

*****

AKT/SH/SBP
(Release ID :138703)

Posted 50 minutes ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
First Aid
First Aid
Possible injuries encountered when Hiking, and how to treat them.

Whether you like to hike long distances or in short spurts, you can encounter hazards along the way. Hiking trails are often located in parks and wooded areas where rocks, tree limbs, insects and lack of fresh water can all create problems for hikers.
Some common injuries include :
Blisters
Skin Injuries (cuts & grazes)
Sprains
Insect Bites
Sunburn
Dehydration
Here I will cover prevention and treatment basics. As in all cases, if you have an injury and treat it yourself, make sure you see a doctor at the earliest opportunity.
Remember the old saying……..Prevention is better than cure.

The Injuries listed above, are the most common amongst hikers. Obviously other Injuries can occur, some a lot more serious. Serious injuries are not as common, but are a sure fire reason to think long and hard before hiking alone. More serious Injuries would include :
Broken Bones/Dislocations
Hypothermia
Hyperthermia/Heat Stroke
Burns
Unconsciousness
Eye Injuries (branch impalement)
Blisters
Even the most experienced hikers can get blisters on their feet. Unfamiliar terrain and inclines add more stress to footgear. Blisters often form on heels, anklebones and on big toes when going downhill. Carry a small sheet of moleskin to cut into shape and apply to the blistered area. This action will allow you to continue your hike without undue discomfort.
What causes blisters? Friction or rubbing of the skin is one of the most common causes of blisters. Blisters caused by rubbing and friction can occur after walking, running or hiking long distances, especially while wearing ill-fitting shoes, or after performing other repetitive motions over an extended period of time.
There are several steps you can take to prevent blisters. The main goal is eliminating or, at least, minimising friction to blister-prone areas. The first step to preventing blisters on your feet is selecting the correct shoes. But there are other ways to help prevent blisters, including socks, lubricants and taping the area of your foot that you know is prone to blisters using medical tape. Even drinking more water!
Early Treatment of Itchy Foot Blisters
Blisters develop over a period of time and often you can already feel one coming up. Early detection and treatment is the key to preventing full grown Blisters. If you feel a sore place on your foot or irritation, do the following:
Take off your boots and socks immediately and remove any sand or gravel from your feet.
Let your feet dry and cool down.
Cover the sore area with surgical tape, band-aid, or even better special Blister moleskin. Moleskins are artificial skin that you can cut to shape and stick to your own skin.
Remove the moleskin once you stop hiking and let the skin recover during the night. The next morning, you can judge for yourself to apply a new cover or not. In general, take precautions and apply moleskin even if the area is only moderately irritated.
Treating Blisters
If the Blisters are at the surface and filled with fluid, you should take a sterilised needle and pierce the blister. Pierce from the side close to the base of the Blister and let all the liquid flow out. If the affected skin is still intact then do not remove it. Instead, cover the drained Blister with moleskin. If the affected area is ruptured then carefully cut it away and clean the underlying new skin with rubbing alcohol or an antiseptic. If you have the time, you should allow the new skin to harden in the open air. If you need to move on again, apply moleskin and use gauze to keep the moleskin from directly contacting the tender new skin. Once the new skin has hardened a bit, you can apply benzoin or rubbing alcohol to further toughen up the new skin. Keep the new skin clean and sterilise it to prevent infection.
If the blisters on the foot are buried deep in your skin and does not hold a lot of liquid then do not try to puncture them. Instead, just cover them with moleskin.
Skin Injuries
Stop the bleeding by applying gentle pressure with a clean cloth or sterile bandage. If possible, elevate the wound. Don’t lift the bandage to check on the wound or you may break the blood clot that is forming, and bleeding may start again.
Clean the wound with clean, clear water. Use soap and water to clean the area around the scrape, but try to use only clean water on the actual wound.
Apply an antibiotic cream or ointment – such as Neosporin or Polysporin – in a thin layer to the wound.
Cover the scrape with a bandage.
Deep wounds will require stitches. It’s best to get stitches in the first few hours after the injury occurs.
Watch for infection. See a doctor if the scrape isn’t healing, or if you see redness, drainage or swelling or it feels warm or the pain increases.
Get a tetanus shot if the scrape is deep or dirty and your last one was more than five years ago.
Sprains:
Pain in your knees makes for quite an unpleasant hike. Knee injuries can happen doing practically any activity, but the constant pounding of hiking for hours can really wear out your joints. You may get a serious injury such as a torn ligament if you twist wrong or take a fall while hiking, but chances are your knees will just get tired out and inflamed from too much work. Just like a mechanical device, the joints in your body can wear out if they are overworked and not allowed to be repaired.
Downhill hiking is the major cause of knee problems. When hiking uphill, the muscles work hard to lift your weight, but when coming downhill, gravity is pulling your weight down so muscles don't work so hard. Unfortunately, your joints absorb the impact of your weight being pulled down the mountain and too much stress on ankles, knees, and hips can cause irritation and inflammation.The faster you hike downhill, the higher you raise the risk of injury. You are in less control, have less reaction time, and have more inertia to arrest if a mis-step occurs. And, to top it off, the impact to your body is amplified as you hike faster. So, slow down! Taking your time going downhill is safer and less damaging to your knees and other joints.
Treatment : Rest: The most important part of treating a knee injury is resting your knee. You may be told to keep weight off your knee. This means that you should not walk on your injured leg. Rest helps decrease swelling and allows the injury to heal. When the pain decreases, begin normal, slow movements.

Ice: Ice causes blood vessels to constrict (get small) which helps decrease swelling, pain, and redness. Put crushed ice in a plastic bag or use a bag of frozen corn or peas. Cover it with a towel. Put this on your knee for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times each day. Do this for 2 to 3 days or until the pain goes away.

Compress: You may need to wear an elastic bandage. This helps keep your injured knee from moving too much while it heals. You can loosen or tighten the elastic bandage to make it comfortable. It should be tight enough for you to feel support. It should not be so tight that it causes your toes to be numb or tingly. If you are wearing an elastic bandage, take it off and rewrap it once a day.

Elevate: Lie down and raise your knee to a level above your heart to help decrease the swelling.

Ankles can easily be turned, especially on rocky surfaces. This why I always wear boots rather than shoes when hiking, and always have at least 1 hiking pole. An ankle sprain can range from mild to severe, depending on how badly the ligament is damaged and how many ligaments are injured. With a mild sprain, the ankle may be tender, swollen, and stiff. But it usually feels stable, and you can walk with little pain. A more serious sprain might include bruising and tenderness around the ankle, and walking is painful. In a severe ankle sprain, the ankle is unstable and may feel "wobbly." You can't walk, because the ankle gives out and may be very painful.
Treatment again for Ankle Sprains, as will all sprains is…… R.I.C.E.

Insect Bites :
Unfortunately, you can never tell when you will run into a stinging insect on hiking trails. Bees, wasps, mosquitoes and flies are just a few of the creatures that can deliver painful, itchy stings. Ensure that the first-aid kit in your backpack also contains an anti-sting medication to reduce discomfort from insect bites. These medications are available in individual dose packets and easy-to-pack pens. Always rinse and dry the bite area before applying medications. Remove stingers if necessary.
Removing a sting
As soon as you have been stung by a bee, remove the sting and the venomous sac if it has been left in the skin. Do this by scraping it out, either with your fingernails or using something with a hard edge, such as a bank card.
When removing the sting, be careful not to spread the venom further under your skin and do not puncture the venomous sac.
Do not pinch the sting out with your fingers or a pair of tweezers because you may spread the venom. If a child has been stung, an adult should remove the sting.
Wasps and hornets do not usually leave the sting behind, so could sting you again. If you have been stung and the wasp or hornet is still in the area, walk away calmly to avoid being stung again.
Basic treatment
Most insect bites and stings cause itching and swelling that usually clears up within several hours.
Minor bites and stings can be treated by:
washing the affected area with soap and water
placing a cold compress (a flannel or cloth cooled with cold water) over the affected area to reduce swelling
not scratching the area because it can become infected
Additional treatment
If the bite or sting is painful or swollen, you can also:
wrap an ice pack (such as a bag of frozen peas) in a towel and place it on the swelling
take painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen (children under 16 years old should not be given aspirin)
use a spray or cream that contains local anasthetic, antihistamine or mild hydrocortisone on the affected area to prevent itching and swelling
take an antihistamine tablet to help reduce swelling

Blisters
If you develop blisters after being bitten by an insect, do not burst them because they may become infected. Blisters do not often cause pain unless they burst, exposing the new skin underneath. If possible, use an adhesive bandage (plaster) to protect the blistered area.
If (like me) you are allergic to bee/wasp stings, I would advise that you carry an EpiPen in your first aid kit.

Ticks :
Most ticks do not carry diseases, and most tick bites do not cause serious health problems. But it is important to remove a tick as soon as you find it. Removing the tick completely may help you avoid diseases such as Lyme disease that the tick may pass on during feeding, or a skin infection where it bit you.
When you return home from areas where ticks might live, carefully examine your skin and scalp for ticks. Check your pets, too
How to remove a tick
Use fine-tipped tweezers to remove a tick. If you don't have tweezers, put on gloves or cover your hands with tissue paper, then use your fingers. Do not handle the tick with bare hands.
Grab the tick as close to its mouth (the part that is stuck in your skin) as you can. The body of the tick will be above your skin.

Do not grab the tick around its swollen belly. You could push infected fluid from the tick into your body if you squeeze it.

Gently pull the tick straight out until its mouth lets go of your skin. Do not twist the tick. This may break off the tick's body and leave the head in your skin.
After the tick has been removed, wash the area of the tick bite with a lot of warm water and soap. A mild dishwashing soap, such as Ivory, works well. Be sure to wash your hands well with soap and water also.
Put the tick in a dry jar or ziplock bag and save it in the freezer for later identification if necessary.
NOTE : If you can't remove a tick, go and see your Doctor.
What not do do :
Smother a tick that is stuck to your skin with petroleum jelly, nail polish, gasoline, or rubbing alcohol.

Burn the tick while it is stuck to your skin.
Smothering or burning a tick could make it release fluid-which could be infected-into your body and increase your chance of infection.
There are some tick-removal devices that you can buy. If you are active outdoors in areas where there are a lot of ticks, you may want to consider buying such a device. (Tick Key, see pic #2)
Sunburn
Sunburn is always a danger on long hikes in hot weather. You may have to hike through long, open area with no shade. Always apply sunscreen before you begin your hike, and re-apply the sunscreen periodically during the day. Pay special attention to re-application after sweating a lot or getting wet in streams or waterfalls. Small, easy-to-carry tubes of sunscreen are available that fit easily into backpacks and do not add extra weight.
If you have sunburn, you should avoid direct sunlight by covering up the affected areas of skin and staying in the shade until your sunburn has healed. However, protecting your skin from the sun using sunscreen is better than treating it.
Water
Cool the skin by sponging it with lukewarm water or by having a cool shower or bath. Applying a cold compress, such as a cold flannel, to the affected area will also cool your skin. A Bandana soaked in water will work well whilst still out on the trail.
Drinking plenty of fluids will help to cool you down and will replace water lost through sweating. It will also help prevent dehydration (when the normal water content in your body is reduced, causing thirst and light-headedness).
Moisturiser
For mild sunburn, apply a moisturising lotion or aftersun cream. Aftersun cream will cool your skin and moisturise it, helping to relieve the feeling of tightness.
Moisturisers that contain aloe vera will also help to soothe your skin. Calamine lotion can relieve any itching or soreness.
Painkillers
Painkillers can help to relieve the pain and reduce the inflammation caused by sunburn.
Severe sunburn
Severe cases of sunburn may require special burn cream and burn dressings. Ask your pharmacist for advice. You may need to have your burns dressed by a nurse at your GP surgery.

Dehydration
Dehydration is the hikers worst enemy. A long strenuous hike can use up fluid reserves in the body quickly in hot weather. Sometimes, hikers miscalculate their water needs and find themselves running out of water on the trail. Bring enough water to allow you to quench your thirst every 30 minutes. Drink before you are thirsty to prevent fluid loss. Tuck a few water purification tablets into your backpack in case you run out of water and are forced to refresh yourself from a stream or creek. Signs of dehydration include increased thirst, dry mouth, dry skin, light-headedness, weakness dark-colored urine and headache. Dehydration can lead to heat stroke, a serious medical problem. Be aware of signs such as vomiting, headache, cramps, rapid pulse or confusion. Get into the shade and seek medical attention immediately
Stop and rest
Get out of direct sunlight and lie down in a cool spot, such as in the shade or an air-conditioned area.
Prop your feet up
Take off any extra clothes
Drink cool water, juice, or sports drink to replace fluids and minerals. Drink 2ltrs of cool liquids over the next 2 to 4 hours.
On returning home, Rest and take it easy for 24 hours, and continue to drink a lot of fluids. Although you will probably start feeling better within just a few hours, it may take as long as a day and a half to completely replace the fluid that you lost.
Severe Dehydration, Children and adults who are severely dehydrated should be treated by emergency personnel arriving in an ambulance or in a hospital emergency room, where they can receive salts and fluids through a vein (intravenously) rather than by mouth. Intravenous hydration provides the body with water and essential nutrients much more quickly than oral solutions do — something that's essential in life-threatening situations.
My personal advise……..DO NOT wait until you are thirsty to drink !!!!

More Serious Injuries

Breaks and Dislocations
A fracture can generally be diagnosed by the patient's symptoms, by the signs of appearange of the part, and the history of the accident or injury. When characteristic signs are absent, the diagnosis may be made from a history of sudden severe pain, followed by deformity and local tenderness on pressure.

The chief symptom of a fracture is generally pain at or near the site of the injury, with tenderness on pressure. There is also disability of movement or use of the part, with pain on attempted movement. Swelling and deformity may be seen, but are not necessarily present in all fractures. In some cases swelling may mask the deformity, especially at the ankle.
The limb or part may be misshapen or held in an unnatural position, or there may be obvious shortening. If the fractured bone is near the surface of the skin it may be seen to be irregular in outline or shape.
Treatment :
Apply a cold pack to the area of fracture or dislocation to decrease swelling and to relieve pain.

Flush open wounds associated with compound fractures with clean, fresh water and cover them with a dry dressing.

Splint the injured area to keep it from moving. Support a broken limb by using the best material available for a splint, such as sticks, part of a backpack frame, or other stabilizing device. Wrap tape around the splint and the extremity affected. For example, if a forearm is broken, the splint should run from the wrist to the upper arm and support the arm without repositioning it.
Splints should be firm, and sufficiently long to support the joints above and below the fracture. They should be light and strong, and at least as wide as the limb. Sticks gathered from the surrounding trees or Hiking poles may be used as temporary emergency substitutes. Whatever form of support is used should be well padded on the surface next to the limb with a soft material. When no splint is available for first aid, an injured arm may be very carefully bound to the body; a fractured leg should always be tied to its fellow for additional support, with wide bandages round the thighs, above and below the knees, at the ankles and round the feet. Use your hat (or helmet if you're rock climbing) to put over the feet for support. Remember MOVE THE GOOD LEG TO THE INJURED LEG.
Great care must be used when applying the splints and bandages so that the injured part is kept well supported and the bones are not further displaced. Bandages must be applied firmly but not too tightly, to hold the splints in position. The upper bandage should always applied first.
A Stretcher may be improvised in an emergency by passing two poles through the sleeves of two or three coats turned inside out. The coats are buttoned up. Strips of wood bound to the ends of the poles complete the stretcher.
A stretcher of some sort must be obtained as soon as possible and should be covered with padding, blankets or garments; the stretcher should be gently slid beneath, and the patient laid on it by a sufficient number of people to raise him easily from the ground. The stretcher should then be carried by four people, two at each end, moving steadily with great care, and keeping exact step with each other. If these persons take hold of the ends of two poles fixed under the stretcher, they will find they can carry it much more easily.
DO NOT……..Under any circumstances try to push back protruding bones, or bones in a dislocation. For protuding bones in an open fracture, make a ring bandage to encase the bone, before applying the bandages.

Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a condition in which core temperature drops below the required temperature for normal metabolism and body functions which is defined as 35.0 °C(95.0 °F). Body Temperature is usually maintained near a constant level of 36.5–37.5 °C (98–100 °F). If exposed to cold and the internal mechanisms are unable to replenish the heat that is being lost, a drop in core temperature occurs. As body temperature decreases, characteristic symptoms occur such as shivering and mental confusion.
Hypothermia most often occurs because of prolonged exposure to cold weather. Inadequate clothing for conditions may not provide enough insulation for the body to prevent heat loss. Immersion in water hastens hypothermia, and just a few minutes in cold water may be fatal.
The body starts to slow as the temperature drops. Aside from the cold that is felt and the shivering that may occur, mental function is most affected initially. A particular danger of hypothermia is that it develops gradually, and since it affects thinking and reasoning, it may go unnoticed.
Initial hunger, an urge to urinate and nausea will give way to apathy as the core body temperature drops. This is followed by confusion, lethargy and slurred speech, loss of consciousness, and eventually coma. Often the affected person will lie down, fall asleep, and die. In some cases, the patient will paradoxically remove their clothes just before this occurs.
Treatment :
The patient should be removed from the cold environment and placed in a warm shelter away from the wind. Wet clothing should be removed and replaced with a warm, dry covering including head covering.
The patient's breathing should be monitored, and if it becomes dangerously slow or stops, CPR should be initiated.
Rewarming should be started by applying warm compresses to the chest, neck and groin. Hot water should not be used. Because there may be associated frostbite, direct heat should not be applied to the body. Instead, warm blankets and body to body contact may be needed as a first aid measure. Space blankets are good as they reflect body heat back to the patient, if you have one big enough, get in with them and use what we in the military used to call the "Buddy buddy system". Climbing into any shelter/sleeping bag with the patient gives them warmth from your body so get in with them where possible.
The severity of hypothermia and the patient's mental status and ability to function will determine what further treatment is necessary. Passive rewarming with warm clothing in a warm environment may be all that is required for a conscious person who is shivering.

Hyperthermia / Heat Stroke:

Hyperthermia is the opposite of Hypothermia, and is elevated body temperature due to failed thermoregulation that occurs when a body produces or absorbs more heat than it dissipates. Extreme temperature elevation then becomes a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment to prevent disability or death. Amongst the most common causes is heat stroke. Hyperthermia is defined as a temperature greater than 37.5–38.3 °C (100–101 °F), depending on the reference used.
The normal body temperature in a healthy person can be as high as 37.7 °C(99.9 °F) in the late afternoon. Hyperthermia requires an elevation from the temperature that would otherwise be expected. Such elevations range from mild to extreme; body temperatures above 40 °C(104 °F) can be life threatening.
Signs and symptoms are, Hot, dry, skinas blood vessels dilate in an attempt to increase heat loss. An inability to cool the body through sweating may cause the skin to feel dry.
Other signs and symptoms vary. Accompanying dehydration can produce nausea, vomiting, headaches, and low blood pressure and the latter can lead to dizziness and fainting, especially if the standing position is assumed quickly.
In severe heat stroke, there may be confused, hostile, or seemingly intoxicated behavior. Heart rate and respiration rate will increase as blood pressure drops and the heart attempts to maintain adequate circulation. The decrease in blood pressure can then cause blood vessels to contract reflexly, resulting in a pale or bluish skin color in advanced cases.
Heatstroke in also known as sunstroke, thermic fever or siriasis, It happens when the body's mechanisms for controlling temperature fail. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency needing immediate treatment. While many people feel sick and faint during heat waves, most of these people are suffering from heat exhaustion, a related condition usually less serious than heat stroke.
Working and excercising in hot conditions without taking in enough fluids, is the leading cause of heatstroke. You can get heat stroke by not replacing lost fluids over days or weeks, or you can bring it on in a few hours by exercising strenuously on a hot day without drinking plenty of liquids first.
Liquids help to cool us down by allowing the body to produce sweat. However, liquids are also necessary for bodily functions, such as keeping up blood pressure. You can lose large amounts of body fluid in the form of sweat without noticing any effects, but at a certain point the body will reserve the remaining fluid for vital functions and stop sweating. The body's core temperature then shoots up, and cells start dying.
Sweat evaporates more rapidly in dry weather, cooling the body more efficiently than in humid weather. When working in humid conditions, the core temperature rises more rapidly. This is why weather forecasts add a humidity factor or heat index to represent how you will actually feel outdoors.
Treatment :
Everything must be done to cool the heat stroke victim immediately. The best solution is to remove them from the sun, immerse the body in cold water, such as a river or stream. Otherwise, remove most of their clothes, douse them with water, and fan them vigorously. Wrapping in wet sheets can help increase the rate of heat loss. If the person is conscious and alert, offer him or her water or other fluids. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks because they dehydrate you.
If the victim starts shivering, slow down the cooling treatment because shivering raises core temperature. Take the person's temperature every 10 minutes if you have a thermometer handy. You should not let the core temperature fall below 38°C (100°F), as this can result in an uncontrollable slide towards dangerously low temperatures (hypothermia). All the while you should be making arrangements to get the victim to an emergency room. Watch for signs of respiratory arrest (breathing failure) and be ready to give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
Place the victim in a cool place, somewhere in the shade, lay them down and give small gulps of liquid every few minutes. "Sports" drinks are best but water is often more readily available. You should watch carefully for signs of deterioration, but there's no need to rush to a hospital for a normal case of heat exhaustion.

Burns :
To distinguish a minor burn from a serious burn, the first step is to determine the extent of damage to body tissues. The three burn classifications of first-degree burn, second-degree burn and third-degree burn will help you determine emergency care.
1st-degree burn
The least serious burns are those in which only the outer layer of skin is burned, but not all the way through.
The skin is usually red
Often there is swelling
Pain sometimes is present
Treat a first-degree burn as a minor burn unless it involves substantial portions of the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or a major joint, which requires emergency medical attention.
2nd-degree burn
When the first layer of skin has been burned through and the second layer of skin (dermis) also is burned, the injury is called a second-degree burn.
Blisters develop
Skin takes on an intensely reddened, splotchy appearance
There is severe pain and swelling.
If the second-degree burn is no larger than 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) in diameter, treat it as a minor burn. If the burned area is larger or if the burn is on the hands, feet, face, groin or buttocks, or over a major joint, treat it as a major burn and get medical help immediately. 3rd-degree burn
The most serious burns involve all layers of the skin and cause permanent tissue damage. Fat, muscle and even bone may be affected. Areas may be charred black or appear dry and white. Difficulty inhaling and exhaling, carbon monoxide poisoning, or other toxic effects may occur if smoke inhalation accompanies the burn.
Treatment :
For minor burns, including first-degree burns and second-degree burns limited to an area no larger than 3 inches (7.6 centimeters) in diameter, take the following action:
Cool the burn. Hold the burned area under cool (not cold) running water for 10 or 15 minutes or until the pain subsides. If this is impractical, immerse the burn in cool water or cool it with cold compresses. Cooling the burn reduces swelling by conducting heat away from the skin. Don't put ice on the burn.
Cover the burn with a sterile gauze bandage. Don't usefluffy cotton, or other material that may get lint in the wound. Wrap the gauze loosely to avoid putting pressure on burned skin. Bandaging keeps air off the burn, reduces pain and protects blistered skin.
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever. These include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Aleve) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others).
Caution
Don't use ice. Putting ice directly on a burn can cause a person's body to become too cold and cause further damage to the wound.
Don't apply egg whites, butter or ointments to the burn. This could cause infection.
Don't break blisters. Broken blisters are more vulnerable to infection.
For major burns, call for emergency medical help. Until an emergency unit arrives, follow these steps:
Don't remove burned clothing. However, do make sure the victim is no longer in contact with smoldering materials or exposed to smoke or heat.
Don't immerse large severe burns in cold water. Doing so could cause a drop in body temperature (hypothermia) and deterioration of blood pressure and circulation (shock).
Check for signs of circulation (breathing, coughing or movement). If there is no breathing or other sign of circulation, begin CPR.
Elevate the burned body part or parts. Raise above heart level, when possible.
Cover the area of the burn. Use a cool, moist, sterile bandage; clean, moist cloth; or moist cloth towels.

Unconciousness :
When a casualty is unconscious, their muscles become relaxed, including their swallowing muscles, and if the casualty is not placed on their side, they can choke on their own fluids. If an unconscious casualty is left on their back, their tongue may fall back and block the airway. An unconscious casualty is still breathing and has a pulse, but may not respond to gentle shouting and stimulation. They look like they are in a deep sleep, but cannot be woken up. They may not respond to verbal or painful stimuli.
Treatment :
If you come across an unconscious person for whom the nature of the accident or the positioning indicates that she may have broken her back (for example, a bystander tells you the casualty fell,) your priority remains to check the airway.
Ask a question to find out if the casualty is conscious. Do not shake the casualty.
Carry out your ABC checks, taking care to tilt the head gently. If the head is already extended a suitable way, do not move it any further. lnstead, just use the chin lift and carefully check the mouth.
If the casualty is not breathing, give rescue breaths and full CPR as needed. Make an early call for an ambulance.
If you have to roll the casualty on to her back to resuscitate, then you should aim to keep the casualty's head, trunk and toes in a straight line. If possible, get bystanders to help move the casualty over, but do not waste time looking for help because the casualty needs air as soon as possible.
If the casualty is unconscious and lying in such a way that the head is extended and she is on her side, allowing fluid to drain from the mouth, then leave them alone.
Hold the casualty's head still by placing your hands over the ears and your fingers along the jawline. Ensure that the airway is monitored.
If the casualty is unconscious and either the head is not extended or she is not lying on her side, you need to move her into the recovery position. Ideally, with enough bystanders, you should use the log roll. lf not, be prepared to roll the casualty into the recovery position yourself.
Recovery positioning : Put the arm that's closest to you at right angles to the casualties body, with the palm facing upwards. Put the palm of their other hand against their chest. Lift the knee that's furthest from you so that their leg is bent and their foot is flat on the floor. Pull the bent knee towards you, and the person's body should roll onto their side. Put the free hand (the one that was on the chest) under the head, so that the palm is on the floor, and the person's cheek is on the back of the hand.

Continue monitoring the casualty, and Never leave them alone.
Eye Injuries :
Common causes of abrasions to the eye's surface (corneal abrasions) are getting poked in the eye or rubbing the eye when a foreign body is present, such as dust or sand. Corneal abrasions are very uncomfortable and cause eye redness and severe sensitivity to light.
If you know something has scratched your eye, it's very important to see your eye doctor to seek treatment for your eye injury.
Scratches also can make your eye susceptible to infection from bacteria or a fungus. Certain types of bacteria and fungi can enter the eye through a scratch and cause serious harm in as little as 24 hours. Even blindness can result. This is especially true if whatever scratched your eye is dirty or contaminated.
Remember also that infections from eye injuries such as scratches can originate from unexpected sources such as tree branches.
If you have a scratched eye, don't rub it. And don't patch your eye, either. Bacteria like dark, warm places to grow, and a patch might provide the ideal environment. Simply keep the eye closed or loosely tape a paper cup or eye shield over it. See your doctor as soon as possible to check out this type of eye injury.

Snakebites :
Deaths from snakebites are rare. More than one-half of the snakebite victims have little or no poisoning, and only about one-quarter develop serious systemic poisoning. However, the chance of a snakebite in a survival situation can affect morale, and failure to take preventive measures or failure to treat a snakebite properly can result in needless tragedy.
The primary concern in the treatment of snakebite is to limit the amount of eventual tissue destruction around the bite area.
A bite wound, regardless of the type of animal that inflicted it, can become infected from bacteria in the animal's mouth. With non venomous as well as venomous snakebites, this local infection is responsible for a large part of the residual damage that results.
Snake venoms not only contain poisons that attack the victim's central nervous system (neurotoxins) and blood circulation (hemotoxins), but also digestive enzymes (cytotoxins) to aid in digesting their prey. These poisons can cause a very large area of tissue death, leaving a large open wound. This condition could lead to the need for eventual amputation if not treated.
There are two kinds of snake venom out there – hemotoxic (affects blood) and neurotoxic (affects nervous system). Rattle snakes, Copperheads and Water Moccasins (Crotalinae, or Pit Vipers) are hemotoxic and can cause problems with clotting. Cobras and Coral snakes (Elapids) are neurotoxic and their venom can stop nerve signals and cause organ failure. Their venom also leads to convulsions or immobilisation.
Shock and panic in a person bitten by a snake can also affect the person's recovery. Excitement, hysteria, and panic can speed up the circulation, causing the body to absorb the toxin quickly. Signs of shock occur within the first 30 minutes after the bite.
Before you start treating a snakebite, determine whether the snake was venomous or non venomous. Bites from a non venomous snake will show rows of teeth. Bites from a poisonous snake may have rows of teeth showing, but will have one or more distinctive puncture marks caused by fang penetration. Symptoms of a venomous bite may be spontaneous bleeding from the nose and anus, blood in the urine, pain at the site of the bite, and swelling at the site of the bite within a few minutes or up to 2 hours later.
Breathing difficulty, paralysis, weakness, twitching, and numbness are also signs of neurotoxic venoms. These signs usually appear 1.5 to 2 hours after the bite.
Whether a venomous snake bite is hemotoxic, neurotoxic or both, treatment with an injection of antivenin, or antivenom as soon as possible is absolutely necessary to neutralise the poison. Typically, hospitals will carry the antivenin of all of the venomous snakes found within their region. Giving the victim the proper amount of the antivenin is crucial for proper treatment. The severity of the venomous snake bite depends on the health and size of the victim. Children and the elderly tend to be particularly sensitive to the effects of snake venom.
In order to treat a snakebite, if you determine it to be venomous, you will then need to determine whether it is Hemotoxic or Neurotoxic as the treatment differs slightly.
Treatment :
Non Venomous :
Although not life threatening, bites from non venomous snakes can still be painful and lead to infection.
You need to clean the wound carefully, and stay calm, use alcoholic swabs from your first aid kit if you have some available. If not use clean water.
If you have any available, use some antibiotic ointment to treat the wound.
Bandage the wound, this will protect it and help to discourage infection. Pay attention to the wound as it heals for redness or streaking or other signs of infection.
Hemotoxic Venom :
Remove clothing or constricting items. Bites from venomous snakes can cause rapid and severe swelling. Remove clothing or jewellery from the area.
Minimise your activity. Higher levels of activity will increase blood flow and increase the spread of venom throughout your body.
Do not cut the bite site or use your mouth to suck out the poison. These are likely to be ineffective and can increase the likelihood of infection.
Clean the bite with clean water and soap if you have any with you.
Wrap a tight, but not uncomfortable elastic bandage two to three inches above the bite site. You can use something like an Ace bandage for this, or can fashion one from a stretchy shirt or other article of clothing. The elastic bandage should not be uncomfortable as that will lead to the person unconsciously flexing their muscles, undoing the purpose of immobilising the limb. The intent of this step is to slow drainage from the lymphatic system, not to slow or impede blood flow. Blood on average makes a complete circuit through the body around once a minute, and cannot be significantly slowed down via compression without risking cutting off circulation. The lymphatic system, on the other hand, drains much more slowly and can be influenced by an elastic compress above the site of the wound.Check for a pulse below the over wrap. It should be present. NOTE: Some experts disagree with this step of using an elastic compress. Doing so may cause a rapid release of venom when the bandage or other material is removed. Leaving it on is not an option, however, because any administered anti venom will not be able to reach the affected area. Additionally, people not trained in first aid will often make the mistake of making the compress to tight, much like a tourniquet, which risks cutting off circulation and worsening the condition. In the case of hemotoxin, the use of a material to restrict blood flow may result in the loss of limb.
Splint the bitten limb to prevent motion. Lie down and keep the splinted extremity at heart level.
Keep the casualty calm. Let them rest until you can get them medical attention. If the victim is conscious, make them drink fluids.

Neurotoxic Venom :
To treat a bite from an Elapid (Neurotoxic venom) do the same as above, however in this case you need to wrap and constrict the bite to prevent the spread through your lymphatic system.
Keep calm and try not to panic.

Some snakes can look very similar indeed, remember the rhyme in the picture below, in order to tell the difference between a venomous Coral snake, and a harmless King snake. Remember though, the best way to avoid being bitten in the first place, is to leave snakes alone.
Posted 3 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
Homeopathic remedies for Sun stroke
Homeopathic remedies for Sun stroke

SUNSTROKE is a life-threatening condition in which the body’s heat-regulating system fails, due to exposure to high temperatures. Sunstroke can occur when the body’s mechanisms to rid itself of excess heat are overwhelmed by a very hot or humid environment, or strenuous physical activity.
Heat stroke is a form of hyperthermia, an abnormally elevated body temperature with accompanying physical and neurological symptoms. Heat stroke is a true medical emergency that can be fatal if not properly and promptly treated. Heat stroke is also sometimes referred to as heatstroke.
Symptoms of sunstroke include elevated body temperature; hot, dry skin; hyperventilation; mental confusion; and eventual unconsciousness. Sunstroke can be prevented by drinking plenty of water and avoiding overtaxing the body in hot weather and while exercising.
Symptoms of Heat Stroke
The main symptom of heat stroke is a core body temperature above 105 degrees Fahrenheit. But fainting may be the first sign.
Other symptoms may include:
- Throbbing headache
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Lack of sweating despite the heat
- Red, hot, and dry skin
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rapid heartbeat, which may be either strong or weak
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Behavioral changes such as confusion, disorientation, or staggering
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
Homeopathic remedies for Sun stroke
Glonoine
This is the most efficient remedy; in fact, no remedy stimulates the heart and vaso-motor centers in themedulla so quickly. The indications for its use will be pale face, fixed eyes, white tongue, full, round pulse, labored respiration, cerebral vomiting and sinking at the pit of the stomach. The temperature is high and oftentimes there is unconciousness. It is also suitable for the after-effects of sunstroke.
Belladonna
This remedy is quite similar to Glonoine. There is drowsiness, loss of consciousness, whizzing in the ears and constriction of the chest. Gelsemium may also be useful in sunstroke, with cerebral congestion, delirium, headache, high temperature and tendency to coma.
Natrum carbonicum
This remedy is particularly useful in the chronic effects of sunstroke and in headache which return in hot weather. Natrum carbonicum will sometimes calm very excitable and nervous persons during thunder storms. Remember it, however, in debility and headache from the sun.
Bryonia
Severe headache made worse by the slightest motion. The individual is extremely thirsty for large amounts of cold water.
Aconite nape
Faint and dizzy with headache after prolonged, direct exposure to the sun. Individual may say he feels like he is dying, be anxious and restless.
Carbo Veg
Collapse from excess heat with clamminess of the skin and stomach complaints. The individual wants to be fanned and needs to feel moving air.
Gelsemium
Drowsiness, headache in back of head, no thirst, weakness, comatose and useful for sun stroke.
Lachesis
Excellent for treating headaches from sun exposure especially if they are worse on the left side. Individual feels worse after waking from sleep, feels faint and dizzy.
Author:- Dr.R.K.Choudhary BHMS
Posted 3 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr

Alarm Systems and Evacuation Plans

Alarm Systems and Evacuation Plans
Self-Inspection Checklist

Guidelines: This checklist covers regulations issued by the U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) under 29 CFR 1910.164, 1910.165 and 1910.38. It applies to fire detection and alarm systems and to fire and emergency action plans. The regulations cited apply only to private employers and their employees, unless adopted by a State agency and applied to other groups such as public employees. The OSHA code for emergency action and fire prevention plans under 1910.38 is comprehensive and covers emergencies other than fires. The ideal fire and emergency action plan, however, should include all the requirements. Fire alarm and detection systems installed in full compliance with existing building codes may not have to be upgraded to meet existing code regulations. Detailed annual testing requirements of automatic and manual fire alarm systems and fire detection systems have not be included in this checklist. Please consult 29 CFR 1910.164, 1910.165 and 5:18-3.4(c)6 and (c)8 for additional details.

	Please Circle
1. Is your facility equipped with a manual fire alarm system?[recommended]	Y N N/A
2. Is your facility equipped with an automatic fire alarm systemactivated by fire or smoke detectors? [recommended]	Y N N/A
3. Are manual fire alarms provided in the natural path of escapefor areas that serve 50 or more persons? [recommended]	Y N N/A
4. Is the distance to any manual fire alarm no more than 200feet of unobstructed horizontal distance on the same floor?[recommended]	Y N N/A
5. Is a smoke or heat detector located in each room?[recommended]	Y N N/A
6. Is the detector paint free, unobscured, and unobstructed?[recommended]	Y N N/A
7. Is disabling, tampering, or interfering with fire detectors andthe fire alarm system prohibited? [recommended]	Y N N/A
8. Are fire drills conducted at least once a month?[recommended]	Y N N/A
9. Are records maintained on each fire drill including the(a) date of the drill, (b) time of the drill, (c) weatherconditions, (d) number of occupants evacuated, and (e) totaltime for evacuation? [recommended]	Y N N/A
10. Are all building occupants evacuated in each fire drill?[recommended]	Y N N/A
11. Are all alarm and fire-detection systems maintained inoperating condition except when undergoing repair ormaintenance? [29 CFR 1910.164(c)(1) and 1910.165(d)(1)]	Y N N/A
12. Is the servicing, maintenance, and testing of fire-detectionsystems (including cleaning and necessary sensitivityadjustments) performed only by people trained in theoperation and function of the system?[29 CFR 1910.164(c)(4)]	Y N N/A
13. Are fire detectors cleaned of dirt, dust, or other particulatesat regular periodic intervals? [29 CFR 1910.164(c)(5)]	Y N N/A
14. Are fire-detection systems that are installed outdoors orin corrosive atmospheres protected from corrosion?[29 CFR 1910.164(d)(1)] Note: A canopy, hood, or other suitable protection mustbe provided.	Y N N/A
15. Is fire-detection equipment protected from mechanical orphysical impact that might render it inoperable?[29 CFR 1910.164(d)(2)]	Y N N/A
16. Has an approved fire safety plan been distributed to allbuilding occupants? [recommended]	Y N N/A
17. Does the approved fire safety plan include (a) the location ofthe nearest exits and fire alarms, (b) the procedures to befollowed when a smoke or fire alarm sounds, and (c) theprocedures to be followed in the event of fire or smoke? [recommended]	Y N N/A
18. Is the evacuation plan conspicuously posted on every floorfor the occupants' use? [recommended]	Y N N/A
19. Is the evacuation plan maintained to reflect changes in theuse and arrangement of the building? [recommended]	Y N N/A
20. Are all teachers trained in the duties they are to performunder the evacuation plan? [recommended]	Y N N/A
21. Are all occupants familiar with the location of the nearest firealarm manual pull station? [recommended]	Y N N/A
22. Can the alarm be perceived above ambient noise or lightlevels by everyone in the area? [29 CFR 1910.165(b)(2)]	Y N N/A
23. Are alarms distinctive and recognizable as a signal toevacuate the building or to perform actions designated underthe emergency action plan? [29 CFR 1910.165(b)(3)]	Y N N/A
24. Are manually operated actuation devices that are used inconjunction with alarm systems unobstructed, conspicuous,and readily accessible? [29 CFR 1910.165(e)]	Y N N/A
25. Is a written fire prevention plan available that includes thefollowing items? [29 CFR 1910.38(a)(2)] · Emergency escape procedures, signals, and routes · Procedures for designated employees who must remain in the facility to shut down equipment before they evacuate · Procedures to account for all building occupants · Rescue and medical duties · Preferred mechanisms for building occupants toreport emergencies · Names and job titles of people who can be contactedfor more information regarding evacuation plans	Y N N/A
26. Is a written fire prevention plan available that includes thefollowing items? [29 CFR 1910.38(b)(2)] · A list of major fire hazards and their proper handlingand storage procedures · Potential ignition sources (such as welding andsmoking) and their control procedures · The type of fire protection equipment or systems thatcan control a fire · The names and titles of personnel responsible formaintaining equipment and systems installed toprevent or control ignitions or fires · The names and titles of personnel responsible forcontrol of fuel-source hazards · Housekeeping procedures as they relate to preventing the accumulation of flammable and combustible waste materials	Y N N/A
27. Are the written emergency and fire prevention plans madeavailable to building occupants for review?[29 CFR 1910.38(a)(5)(iii) and (b)(4)(ii)]	Y N N/A
28. Has training been provided to designated employees to helpwith the safe and orderly emergency evacuation of allbuilding occupants? [29 CFR 1910.38(a)(5)(i)]	Y N N/A
29. Has the emergency and fire prevention plan been reviewedwith all new and current building occupants?[29 CFR 1910.38(a)(5)(ii) and (b)(4)(ii)]	Y N N/A

Comments/Corrective action:

Posted 7 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL

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Apr
8
A quality audit checklist is a quality record that tracks the questions and responses during a quality audit
A quality audit checklistis a quality record that tracks the questions and responses during a quality audit. The quality audit is a valuable tool for continuous improvement. Audits ensure your quality assurance system is sound. Audits are also necessary for ISO 9001 registration.
To create an audit checklist, first reflect on the reason behind the audit. What kind of audit will it be? What audit category are you examining.
Types of Audits
- 3rd Party Audits
- 2nd Party Audits
- 1st Party Audits
3rd Party Audit are done by an outside independent audit organization. In case of an ISO 9001 audit the independent organization is the registrar. They normally do not have an interest in the final outcome. The 3rd party could be a registrar, government employee, or a firm hired by the company. The result of the audit could be a certification, license, acceptance, or an award.
2nd Party Audit are Audits from those who have a deep interest in the final outcome. This could be you auditing your suppliers, or your customers auditing you. The audit could be called a survey or an assessment.
1st Party Audits are audits done internally. They are a management tool with the emphasis on continuous improvement. The auditor(s) must be independent of the audit area. The audit should be aligned with the company goals and metrics.
Audit Categories
- System Audit
- Conformance Audit
- Compliance Audit
- Process Audit
- Product Audit
- Department Audit
System Audits are looking at a particular system which includes multiple processes and can spread across several employees and departments. The audit of your calibration system can be consider a system audit. Your interaction chart lists your systems.
Conformance Audits are audits to define system requirements. These are global in nature. For example a 3rd party audit of your ISO 9001 system is a conformance audit.
Compliance Audit is an audit to regulatory requirements. This includes government agency audits.
Process Audit is a focused audit on a set of processes within your organization. It examines adherence to procedures and specifications during production or service activities.
Product Audit is a focus audit on the product itself. This may be an inspection activity or an out of the box audit.
Department Audit is a focus audit on one department that looks at the processes, specifications, and systems in one department only. It will look at the different operations with in that department. It will also examine department organization and training.
Quality Audit Checklist Stages
- Determine the audit focus
- Prepare for the audit
- Perform the audit
- Report the findings in the initial findings report
- Determine the corrective action
- Update the findings report with the corrective action
- Conduct the corrective action
- Update the findings report when actions are completed
- Follow Up
- Closure
The audit focus is dependent on the organization needs. If it is a system audit, use your interaction chart to determine the system focus. If there are many problems with a particular process then conduct a process audit on that process. If there is a department with many issues then conduct a department audit.
You may want to issue an internal audit engagement letter to the auditee.
During the audit preparation, determine the quality audit checklist. This checklist is the audit plan. During preparation, review the procedures, standards, specifications and / or work instructions. These documents help you determine the quality audit checklist. Record audit questions on the checklist.
During the audit performance follow these guidelines
- Do not be biased
- Keep an open mind
- Do not be argumentive
- Be patient
- Remind the participant that the audit is for continuous improvement
- Always state the facts
- Do not correct the person on the spot.
- Report accurately and clearly
- Be familiar with the procedure
During the initial finding report, document the issues found. State the facts and provide evidence. Use names and demonstrate the findings. Show quality recordsfor evidence. Apply the quality audit checklist as the basis for the findings report.
After the initial findings report, provide a copy to the corrective action team. Have a corrective action team meeting to issue the corrective actions. Document the corrective actions on the findings report. Be sure responsibilities and due dates are assign for the actions.
The team will then complete the corrective actions. Document the completion of the corrective actions on the findings report.
When all actions are completed, close out the report.
Audit Schedule
For ISO 9001 certification, predetermine the management systems audit schedule. Use your interaction chart to establish the necessary systems to schedule. I recommend not scheduling out all of the system audits. Instead keep a 3 to 6 month schedule and update this every month. This will allow you to audit the concerned areas.
I also recommend using a software application to track your audits. The software can track audit questions, schedule, results, and corrective action.
Quality Audit Benefits
- It drives continuous improvement
- Lets management know problems or potential problems
- Provides input into management decisions
- Accesses training and effectiveness
- Shows management support of the quality program
- Verifies compliance
Quality Audit Mistakes
These mistakes prevent an effective audit.
- Auditing with the “gotcha” attitude
- Finding faults and not facts
- Not recognizing that the audit is people focused
- Not properly defining the purpose and scope
- Not using a quality audit checklist
- Not issuing corrective action
- Not conducting follow up on the corrective action
- Not using a team approach to issuing corrective actions
Posted 7 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr
8
भारतीय नव वर्ष (विक्रम संवत 2073) एवं नवरात्रि की हार्दिक शुभकामनायें ।
Posted 9 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL
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Apr

Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Apr 07, 2016

Local Weather Report and Forecast For: Kakinada Dated :Apr 07, 2016

Past 24 Hours Weather Data
Maximum Temp(^oC) (Recorded. on 07/04/16)	36.8
Departure from Normal(^oC)	1
Minimum Temp (^oC) (Recorded. on 07/04/16)	25.8
Departure from Normal(^oC)	0
24 Hours Rainfall (mm) (Recorded from 0830 hrs IST of yesterday to 0830 hrs IST of today)	NIL
Todays Sunset (IST)	18:15
Tommorows Sunrise (IST)	05:51
Moonset (IST)	18:15
Moonrise (IST)	05:39

Date	Temperature ( ^o C )		Weather Forecast
Date	Minimum	Maximum	Weather Forecast
07-Apr	26.0	37.0		Partly cloudy sky towards afternoon/evening
08-Apr	27.0	38.0		Partly cloudy sky towards afternoon/evening
09-Apr	27.0	38.0		Partly cloudy sky towards afternoon/evening
10-Apr	27.0	38.0		Partly cloudy sky towards afternoon/evening
11-Apr	26.0	37.0		Partly cloudy sky towards afternoon/evening
12-Apr	28.0	38.0		Generally cloudy sky with Thundery development
13-Apr	28.0	38.0		Generally cloudy sky with Thundery development

Posted 9 hours ago by Dr. Amar Nath Giri-NAGARJUNA-GROUP-NFCL

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