In chemistry, an acid is defined as a substance that turns blue litmus red, neutralizes alkalis and much more. It is a very corrosive liquid and can be equivalent to fire, or should I say liquid fire. It even does more damage than fire.
Every year, there is an estimated 80 % of acid attacks worldwide and 1,500 acid attacks are directed at women. Most victims mainly women in the aftermath have had their lives changed forever because of this and they do not know what to do about what has befall them.
It is very important get first aid as soon as possible. Otherwise as it has been in some worst cases the acid can penetrate the bone which could be fatal for patient’s life.
People who have experienced acid burns just don't struggle with their scar they struggle with the society. It’s so common for acid attack patients to lose social life. They can’t step outside because there is no acceptance for such kind of face in the society
Most people don't know what to do in the event of an acid attack. The reason for this article is so you can help minimize serious acid damage and disfigurement.
USE YOUR HANDS TO PROTECT YOUR FACE
If you see that someone is going to throw something at you, especially at your face (because this is usually the body part targeted for maximum damage), don't assume it's water. Immediately raise your hands and cover your face and especially your eyes, since our vision is our most precious sense. It is better to have burns on your hands then to lose your vision . If you have a jacket or sweater, cover your face with it. Turn your head from the attacker and flee from the source of attack because the attacker can throw more at you.
GET PLENTY WATER
The most important First Aid is to immediately wash affected body part with plenty of water. Water is very essential to minimize acid damage to skin,
There is a story about two British women (teachers) who were attacked with acid in Zanzibar and luckily for them, they were not too far from the sea. So they immediately into the ocean to dilute the acid. They only suffered permanent discoloration of their skin on the part of the acid attack.
As you flee, do not rush to the hospital immediately. Scream for help for people to bring you water, or if you know a water source like a pool that won't take too much time to get to. Or look for a running tap. Keep the water for as long as possible or if it's in a pool remain there, experts suggest 30 minutes of pouring water on affected area or until you notice burning sensation has finally stopped. Some people pour water on the affected area alright, but the mistake they make is they pour just a cup and head to the hospital afterwards not knowing that the acid will continue destroying their tissue all the way to the hospital and can lead to increase disfigurement.
HEAD OR RUSH THE PATIENT TO THE HOSPITAL
Head to the hospital but first, remove all the jewelry or clothing which had contact with the acid, and don’t put anything like oils, creams oin etc. as this might adversely affect the treatment doctors will give you later. Water is all you need before you get to the hospital.
Prevention is better than cure though, and some preventive tips to avoid acid attack are:
1. Always be aware and alert of your surroundings and of people moving suspiciously around you, because there are some very cruel people in this world especially if they are holding a cup or bottle, since acid is usually carried in a cup or bottle. Also be aware if a person is acting in a suspicious manner.
2. Watch out for people who might bear a grudge against you. And if you see them approaching menacingly, run and alert people around as you do so.
I deeply sympathize with victims of acid attacks and I hope this article will be helpful to others in the case of future eventuality.
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