First Aid and Emergencies
Freeing
Trapped Limbs
Fingers, arms, or legs
sometimes get caught in objects such as bottles, jars, or pipes.
Stay calm; panic will only make the situation worse.
Don't try to force the limb from where it
is stuck, because doing so will make it swell and become
more difficult to remove.
Try to relax the limb. Relaxation alone will
sometimes enable you to free the limb.
If possible, elevate the limb.
Apply ice around the exposed part of the
limb. This may reduce any swelling and allow the limb to
be released.
If ice doesn't work, dribble soapy water
or cooking oil on the limb. Turn the limb or the object
so you "unscrew" it rather than pulling it out
directly.
Call if you are unable
to free the trapped limb.
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