Save a Life: Know What to Do in the Event of an Acid Attack
Right after an acid attack, the first few minutes are extremely important and can save the victim from life-threatening injuries. Here's how you can provide first aid to them.
Statistics suggest that between 2010 and 2015, there were 882 acid attack cases in India.
Section 357C of Indian Penal Code makes it mandatory for hospitals – whether public or private – to provide free of cost treatment to the victim. But if immediate help is far, it’s important to act quickly to minimise the damage that can be caused by the chemical burn.
The first 10 minutes are extremely crucial for helping a victim.
Whether you’re a victim or a witness, here is some advice you can follow if such an incident occurs – to avoid serious facial injuries.
1) The first step is to wash the affected area with as much water as you can. This will disperse the chemical and stop the burning. This should be done for 20 minutes at least while ensuring no puddles are formed. Make sure the water isn’t dirty.
2) Meanwhile, alert an ambulance or ask someone in the vicinity to call one to the area while you continue dousing the affected area with water.
3) Remove any jewellery or clothing that’s come in contact with the acid in the affected area.
4) If the eyes have come in contact with the acid, make sure the victim doesn’t touch them as it will worsen the situation and also burn their hands while rubbing their eyes.
5) If possible, wrap the affected area loosely with a sterilized gauze as it will stop dirt from entering.
Once the victim is being treated in the hospital, it is important to ensure a strict level of hygiene. An acid burn can get infected very easily, so make sure the room and washroom have been cleaned and the food containers are sterilised.
Even with the dressing, it needs to be ensured that the burns don’t come in contact with each other.
Like this story? Or have something to share?
Write to us: [email protected]
Connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.
NEW: Click here to get positive news on WhatsApp!
If you found our stories insightful, informative, or even just enjoyable, we invite you to consider making a voluntary payment to support the work we do at The Better India. Your contribution helps us continue producing quality content that educates, inspires, and drives positive change.
Choose one of the payment options below for your contribution-
By paying for the stories you value, you directly contribute to sustaining our efforts focused on making a difference in the world. Together, let’s ensure that impactful stories continue to be told and shared, enriching lives and communities alike.
Thank you for your support. Here are some frequently asked questions you might find helpful to know why you are contributing?
This story made me
97
121
89
167
Home
Read
Watch
Contribute
