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Published on 10 Apr 2025 by Carlos C.
When emergencies happen at home, every second counts. Whether it's a minor burn in the kitchen or a sudden fall, knowing what to do—and acting quickly—can make all the difference. For domestic helpers, first aid skills aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential.
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe that empowering helpers with basic first aid knowledge equips them to care better, respond confidently, and ensure the safety of the entire household.
Why first aid skills matter
Domestic helpers are often entrusted with the well-being of children, elderly family members, and even individuals with health conditions. Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime. Being prepared can:
- Prevent minor injuries from becoming serious
- Provide comfort and reassurance in stressful situations
- Potentially save lives before professional medical help arrives
1. Basic wound care
Scrapes, cuts, and minor wounds are common, especially with children around. Helpers should know how to:
- Clean a wound properly using antiseptic
- Apply pressure to stop bleeding
- Dress and bandage the wound
- Recognise signs of infection
2. Burns and scalds
Hot water, cooking oil, or a hot pan can cause burns. Helpers should be trained to:
- Cool the burn with running water (not ice!)
- Avoid applying toothpaste or butter
- Cover with a clean, non-stick dressing
- Know when to seek medical attention
3. Choking first aid (Heimlich Manoeuvre)
Choking can happen to babies, toddlers, or even adults. Helpers should understand:
- How to perform back blows and abdominal thrusts
- How to handle choking in infants (different from adults)
- When to call for emergency help
4. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR is a life-saving technique used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. Knowing how to:
- Perform chest compressions effectively
- Use rescue breaths (if trained)
- Recognise the signs of cardiac arrest can be the difference between life and death.
5. Handling falls and head injuries
Falls are especially risky for elderly family members. Helpers should:
- Know how to assess for signs of concussion
- Avoid moving the person if a spinal injury is suspected
- Monitor symptoms and call for medical help if needed
6. Managing allergic reactions
Whether it's a food allergy or an insect sting, helpers should:
- Recognise signs of a severe reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling, difficulty breathing, hives
- Know how to use an EpiPen if available
- Call emergency services immediately
7. Dealing with fevers and seizures
Helpers caring for young children or the elderly should be trained to:
- Take temperature readings accurately
- Know basic fever management (hydration, cool cloths)
- Stay calm during seizures, ensuring the person is safe and not restrained
Encourage your helper to attend a certified course or explore Ministry of Helpers’ partnership with StepUp for online learning modules. It’s an investment in your home’s safety and your helper’s confidence.
You might be interested in:
Why Helpers Should Take Online Training Courses
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
When Employers Are Not Honest: A Cautionary Tale for Hiring Domestic Helpers
Navigating the Singapore Weather: How Helpers Can Keep Homes Comfortable All Year Round
Home Security & Safety: Training Your Helper to Keep Your Home Safe
When emergencies happen at home, every second counts. Whether it's a minor burn in the kitchen or a sudden fall, knowing what to do—and acting quickly—can make all the difference. For domestic helpers, first aid skills aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential.
At Ministry of Helpers, we believe that empowering helpers with basic first aid knowledge equips them to care better, respond confidently, and ensure the safety of the entire household.
Why first aid skills matter
Domestic helpers are often entrusted with the well-being of children, elderly family members, and even individuals with health conditions. Accidents can happen anywhere, anytime. Being prepared can:
- Prevent minor injuries from becoming serious
- Provide comfort and reassurance in stressful situations
- Potentially save lives before professional medical help arrives
1. Basic wound care
Scrapes, cuts, and minor wounds are common, especially with children around. Helpers should know how to:
- Clean a wound properly using antiseptic
- Apply pressure to stop bleeding
- Dress and bandage the wound
- Recognise signs of infection
2. Burns and scalds
Hot water, cooking oil, or a hot pan can cause burns. Helpers should be trained to:
- Cool the burn with running water (not ice!)
- Avoid applying toothpaste or butter
- Cover with a clean, non-stick dressing
- Know when to seek medical attention
3. Choking first aid (Heimlich Manoeuvre)
Choking can happen to babies, toddlers, or even adults. Helpers should understand:
- How to perform back blows and abdominal thrusts
- How to handle choking in infants (different from adults)
- When to call for emergency help
4. CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)
CPR is a life-saving technique used when someone’s breathing or heartbeat has stopped. Knowing how to:
- Perform chest compressions effectively
- Use rescue breaths (if trained)
- Recognise the signs of cardiac arrest can be the difference between life and death.
5. Handling falls and head injuries
Falls are especially risky for elderly family members. Helpers should:
- Know how to assess for signs of concussion
- Avoid moving the person if a spinal injury is suspected
- Monitor symptoms and call for medical help if needed
6. Managing allergic reactions
Whether it's a food allergy or an insect sting, helpers should:
- Recognise signs of a severe reaction (anaphylaxis): swelling, difficulty breathing, hives
- Know how to use an EpiPen if available
- Call emergency services immediately
7. Dealing with fevers and seizures
Helpers caring for young children or the elderly should be trained to:
- Take temperature readings accurately
- Know basic fever management (hydration, cool cloths)
- Stay calm during seizures, ensuring the person is safe and not restrained
Encourage your helper to attend a certified course or explore Ministry of Helpers’ partnership with StepUp for online learning modules. It’s an investment in your home’s safety and your helper’s confidence.
You might be interested in:
Why Helpers Should Take Online Training Courses
The Importance of Sending Money Home Wisely: A Guide for Helpers
When Employers Are Not Honest: A Cautionary Tale for Hiring Domestic Helpers
Navigating the Singapore Weather: How Helpers Can Keep Homes Comfortable All Year Round
Home Security & Safety: Training Your Helper to Keep Your Home Safe