General First Aid
The generic protocol referenced by every Orange Guide's "First Aid" section.
- Call 911 or your local emergency medical service.
- Ensure that medical personnel are aware of the material(s) involved and take precautions to protect themselves and avoid contamination.
- Move the victim to fresh air if it can be done safely.
- Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
If the victim is not breathing
- Do NOT perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation — the victim may have ingested or inhaled the substance.
- If equipped and a pulse is detected, wash the face and mouth, then give artificial respiration using a proper respiratory medical device (bag-valve mask, pocket mask with a one-way valve, or similar).
- If no pulse is detected or no respiratory device is available, provide continuous compressions. Check the pulse every two minutes or monitor for signs of spontaneous respiration.
Decontamination
- Remove and isolate contaminated clothing and shoes.
- For minor skin contact, avoid spreading the material onto unaffected skin.
- In case of contact with the substance, flush the skin or eyes with running water for at least 20 minutes.
- For severe burns, immediate medical attention is required.
Observation
- Effects of exposure — inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact — may be delayed.
- Keep the victim calm and warm.
- Keep the victim under observation.
- For further assistance, contact your local Poison Control Center.
> Note: Basic Life Support (BLS) and Advanced Life Support (ALS) should be done by trained professionals.