As we prepare to say goodbye to the delicious coconut sunscreen and wet swim suits of summer, our thoughts (perhaps kicking and screaming) slowly return to the classroom. Before long, the first period bell will signal the start of another school year. As the saying goes, it’s all fun and games until someone loses an eye.
Preparing yourself and your classroom for everyday calamities of the walking mini-disasters that are KIDS will help you start the school year right. Despite inflation, an ounce of prevention is still worth a pound of cure and being prepared is still superior to running around like a headless chicken. For maximum confidence and readiness, first aid and CPR certification provides the upper hand when facing the special mayhem that is the classroom.
In the meantime, here are a few quick reminders for staying safe and healthy at school:
- Get vaccinated.
- Use bleach wipes to tame super-sized-germy places like bathroom doors, student desks, art supplies and sporting equipment.
- Avoid touching playground equipment and drinking fountains.
- Wash your hands. This is still the most effective way to prevent the spread of infections. (The drill: hottest water you can stand, regular liquid soap and enthusiastic hand rubbing for at least 15 seconds).
- Stock the first aid kit. A basic kit contains adhesive bandages, antibiotic ointment, gauze, first aid tape, scissors, and tweezers.
- Get First Aid and CPR certified. Certification ensures you can effectively manage emergencies without fear or confusion. Knowing how to perform CPR, use an automated external defibrillator, bandage injuries, and control blood flow will provide critical skills for emergencies anywhere, not just at school.
