The four Bs of first aid is a technique used to prioritise injured casualties in an emergency situation. This is useful during incidents where there may be multiple injured casualties such as at a road traffic collision / accident. If you ever find yourself in a situation such as this then just remember the four Bs!

Breathing

You first priority should be casualties who are not breathing normally. Without first aid intervention, these casualties may only have several minutes before their brain starts to die from hypoxia (lack of oxygen). You may find that performing simple airway manoeuvres such as the head tilt chin lift helps open their airway and restores normal breathing. If not, you may have to perform Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR).

Want to find out more? Check out our free online first aid course module: how to help someone who is unconscious.

Bleeding

Your next priority should be casualties who are bleeding from external wounds. Severe bleeding can kill incredibly quickly so its vital you provide immediate first aid treatment. Want to know how? Check our how to help someone who is bleeding.

Breaks

After bleeding comes ‘breaks’. This refers to casualties with suspected broken bones (fractures). Fractures can cause serious internal injuries, and may also be bleeding if they are open. Check out our free first aid guide: First aid for fractures

Burns

Finally, the last B! Despite being at the end, burns can be very serious injuries depending on the size and the cause. You should work quickly to cool any burns. Want to know how? Take a look at our module: first aid for burns.