⚠️ Important: This kit is for use in emergencies involving severe bleeding. Always call 999 immediately before or while giving first aid. Use the kit to control bleeding until professional help arrives.
1. Check the Scene and Call for Help
- Ensure it is safe for you to help.
- Call 999 (or ask someone else to do it). Clearly state: “This is a catastrophic bleed”.
- Put on gloves (if available) to protect yourself and the casualty.
2. Identify the Source of Bleeding
- Look for heavy bleeding that is spurting, pooling, or soaking through clothes quickly.
- Expose the wound if possible by removing or cutting away clothing.
3. Apply Pressure
- Use the trauma dressing or haemostatic gauze provided.
- Place directly onto the wound and apply firm, continuous pressure with both hands.
- If bleeding slows but doesn’t stop, keep pressure on. Do not remove the dressing — add more on top if needed.
4. Use the Tourniquet (for Arm or Leg Bleeding Only)
⚠️ Only apply to arms or legs when bleeding is severe and cannot be controlled by pressure.
- Place the tourniquet 5–7cm (2–3 inches) above the wound.
- Tighten until the bleeding stops (this will be painful for the casualty, but it is essential).
- Secure the strap and note the time of application (tell the paramedics).
- Do not remove or loosen once applied.
5. Monitor and Reassure
- Keep the casualty calm, warm, and still.
- Reassure them that help is on the way.
- Do not give food or drink.
- If they lose consciousness and stop breathing, begin CPR if trained.
Contents of This Kit
- CAT tourniquet
- Haemostatic gauze
- Trauma dressing(s)
- Nitrile gloves
- Safety shears
- Torch / light source
- Instruction card with QR code for digital manual
Remember
- Call 999 immediately.
- Apply direct pressure first.
- Use the tourniquet if pressure fails or the wound is on a limb.
- Stay with the casualty until emergency services arrive.
✅ This kit is designed to save lives. Acting quickly and confidently is the most important step.