HOME FIRST AID: What to do if your child has an accident

It can be difficult to know when to call an ambulance and when to take your child to A&E.

Call an ambulance if your child:

■ Stops breathing ■ Is struggling for breath (for example, you may notice sucking in under the ribcage)

■ Is unconscious or seems unaware of what’s going on ■ Won’t wake up ■ Has a fit for the first time, even if they seem to recover

Take your child to A&E if they:

■ Have a fever and are persistently lethargic despite having paracetamol or ibuprofen

■ Have a cut that won’t stop bleeding or is gaping open

■ Have a leg or arm injury and can’t use the limb

■ Are having difficulty breathing ■ Have severe abdominal pain

■ Have swallowed a poison or tablets If you’re worried and not sure if they need medical help, call NHS 111