Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v3 - Junior Secondary 2
First aid and safety education
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First aid and safety education
Download the Lessonotes Mobile Nigeria 2025 app for faster lesson access on Android and iPhone.
Subject: Physical & Health Education
Class: Junior Secondary 2
Term: 3rd Term
Week: 4
Theme: Basic Human Movement
This page supports the lesson note with a companion video and a short classroom-ready summary.
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define accidents, in juries; state safety measures to be taken at home, school, on the sports ground, on the road; list sports in juries and causes; Mention first aid treatment for in juries; Propose measures of preventing sports in juries, domestic accidents and road traffic accidents.
Obey traffic laws and signals. Signal turns clearly. Ensure bicycle is well-maintained (brakes, tyres, lights).
Passenger Safety: Always wear seatbelts in vehicles. Avoid distracting the driver. Do not put body parts (hands, head) out of moving vehicle windows. Avoid overcrowding public transport.
General Road Use: Never play on or near the road. 2.
3. Sports Injuries and Causes Common sports injuries and their typical causes:
1. Sprains: Damage to ligaments (tissues connecting bones at a joint).
Causes: Twisting or wrenching a joint (e.g., ankle sprain from landing awkwardly after a jump in basketball or football, knee sprain).
2. Strains: Damage to muscles or tendons (tissues connecting muscles to bones).
Causes: Overstretching or overexerting a muscle (e.g., pulled hamstring during a sprint, back strain from lifting heavy weights incorrectly).
3. Fractures: A break or crack in a bone.
Causes: Direct impact, severe fall, sudden twisting force (e.g., bone fracture from a hard tackle in football, a fall from height).
4. Dislocations: When bones at a joint are forced out of alignment.
Causes: Severe impact or sudden twisting (e.g., shoulder dislocation during a fall or contact sport).
5. Concussions: A type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.
Causes: Head collision with another player, ground, or object (e.g., head impact during football or boxing).
6. Cuts and Abrasions: Damage to the skin.
Causes: Falling on a rough surface, contact with sharp objects (e.g., skin abrasion from falling on a track, cut from a faulty goalpost).
7. Bruises (Contusions): Bleeding under the skin, usually caused by a direct impact.
Causes: Blunt force trauma (e.g., knee bruise from hitting the ground).
8. Overuse Injuries: Damage to tissue that builds up slowly over time.
Causes: Repetitive stress without adequate rest (e.g., 'tennis elbow', 'runner's knee'). 2.
4. First Aid Treatment for Injuries First aid is the immediate, temporary care given to an injured or ill person before professional medical help arrives. General Principles for Musculoskeletal Injuries (Sprains, Strains, Bruises): R.I.C.
E. Rest: Stop the activity and rest the injured part to prevent further damage.
Ice: Apply a cold compress or ice pack (wrapped in cloth to prevent direct skin contact) to the injured area for 15-20 minutes every 2-3 hours to reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: Apply a firm but not overly tight bandage (e.g., elastic bandage) to the injured area to help control swelling.
Elevation: Raise the injured limb above the level of the heart to reduce swelling.
Specific First Aid Treatments: Cuts and Abrasions (Minor):
1. Wash hands thoroughly.
2. Clean the wound gently with mild soap and clean water to remove dirt.
3. Apply a mild antiseptic (e.g., Dettol, Savlon) if available and suitable for skin.
4. Cover with a sterile dressing or clean plaster.
5. Apply direct pressure with a clean cloth to stop bleeding. If bleeding is severe or wound is deep, seek medical attention. Minor Burns (First and Second Degree, small area):
1. Immediately cool the burn under cool running water for at least 10-20 minutes. DO NOT use ice directly as it can cause further damage.
2. Remove any tight clothing or jewellery from the burned area, unless it's stuck to the burn.
3. Cover the burn loosely with a sterile, non-fluffy dressing or cling film.
4. Do not apply creams, oils, or traditional remedies (e.g., palm oil) as they can hinder healing and cause infection.
5. Seek medical attention if the burn is larger than the size of the casualty's hand, on the face/genitals, or appears deep.
Suspected Fractures/Dislocations:
1. Do not move the injured person unless absolutely necessary and danger is present.
2. Support the injured limb carefully to prevent further movement.
3. Immobilize the injured area using a makeshift splint (e.g., newspaper, magazine, wood) and bandages or tape.
4. Apply ice pack (wrapped in cloth) to reduce swelling and pain.
5. Seek immediate medical help (call emergency services if available or transport carefully to a hospital). Do NOT attempt to straighten the limb.
Nosebleed:
1. Sit the person upright and lean slightly forward appears deep.
Suspected Fractures/Dislocations:
1. Do not move the injured person unless absolutely necessary and danger is present.
2. Support the injured limb carefully to prevent further movement.
3. Immobilize the injured area using a makeshift splint (e.g., newspaper, magazine, wood) and bandages or tape.
4. Apply ice pack (wrapped in cloth) to reduce swelling and pain.
5. Seek immediate medical help (call emergency services if available or transport carefully to a hospital). Do NOT attempt to straighten the limb.
Nosebleed:
1. Sit the person upright and lean slightly forward (do not lean back, as blood may be swallowed, causing nausea).
2. Pinch the soft part of the nose just above the nostrils firmly for 10-15 minutes, breathing through the mouth.
3. Apply a cold compress to the bridge of the nose.
4. Release pressure slowly and check if bleeding has stopped. If not, repeat the pinching for another 10 minutes.
5. If bleeding is persistent or severe, seek medical attention.
Choking (Mild): Encourage the person to cough forcefully. Choking (Severe, conscious adult):
1. Give up to 5 back blows between the shoulder blades.
2. If back blows are ineffective, give up to 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver).
3. Alternate 5 back blows with 5 abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or the person becomes unconscious.
4. If unconscious, begin CP
R. Seek immediate medical attention. 2.
5. Measures of Preventing Accidents Preventing Sports Injuries:
1. Ensure proper warm-up and cool-down routines before and after exercise.
2. Use appropriate protective gear (helmets, pads, mouthguards, suitable footwear).
3. Learn and practice correct techniques for each sport.
4. Ensure sports facilities and equipment are well-maintained and safe.
5. Adhere to rules of the game and fair play.
6. Adequate rest and hydration.
7. Qualified supervision during sports activities.
Preventing Domestic Accidents:
1. Regularly check and repair faulty electrical appliances and wiring.
2. Store all hazardous chemicals, medicines, and sharp objects in locked cabinets out of reach of children.
3. Keep floors dry and clear of obstacles to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
4. Ensure proper ventilation when using gas appliances and ensure gas cylinders are stored safely.
5. Supervise young children constantly, especially near water (baths, wells) and hot surfaces.
6. Install smoke detectors and have a family fire escape plan. * Preventing Road Traffic Accidents:
1. Obey all traffic rules, signs, and speed limits.
2. Drivers should avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
3. Avoid distractions while driving, cycling, or walking (e.g., mobile phones).
4. Pedestrians should use designated crossing points (zebra crossings, overhead bridges) and look both ways before crossing.
5. Cyclists should wear helmets and reflective clothing, and ensure their bicycles are well-maintained.
6. All vehicle occupants should wear seatbelts.
7. Regular vehicle maintenance (brakes, tyres, lights, wipers).
8. Walk on sidewalks or facing traffic where sidewalks are absent. This section provides the core content necessary for the teacher to deliver the lesson effectively without needing external references. 2.
1. Definition of Accidents and Injuries Accident: An unplanned, unforeseen, and undesirable event that happens suddenly and unexpectedly, often resulting in injury, loss, or damage. Accidents are typically preventable and are not predetermined.
Examples relevant to Nigeria: A child tripping over an untidy rug at home, a student falling during a football match due to a wet pitch, a pedestrian being hit by a motorcycle while crossing the road at an undesignated point.
Injury: Physical harm or damage to the body. It is often the outcome or consequence of an accident. Injuries can range from minor (e.g., cuts, bruises) to severe (e.g., fractures, internal bleeding).
Examples relevant to Nigeria: A deep cut from a broken bottle, a sprained ankle from a fall, a burn from hot water, a fractured limb from a vehicle collision. 2.
2. Safety Measures in Various Settings Safety measures are precautions or actions taken to prevent accidents and minimize risks.
At Home (Domestic Safety): Electrical Safety: Avoid overloading electrical sockets. Unplug appliances when not in use. Report and repair faulty electrical wiring immediately. Keep electrical appliances away from water. Never touch electrical appliances with wet hands.
Kitchen Safety: Store sharp objects (knives, broken glass) securely and out of reach of young children. Turn pot handles inward on the stove to prevent accidental knocking. Store flammable materials (e.g., kerosene, gas cylinders) in well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources. Keep floors dry to prevent slips.
General Tidiness: Clear walkways of obstacles (toys, rugs) to prevent trips and falls. Secure loose rugs or carpets. Ensure good lighting in staircases and dark areas.
Chemical/Poison Safety: Store medicines, cleaning agents, and other harmful chemicals in locked cupboards, clearly labelled, and out of reach of children. Never store them in food containers.
Fire Safety: Install smoke detectors (if affordable). Have an escape plan. Store matches and lighters safely. Never leave burning candles unattended.
At School (School Safety): Classroom Safety: Ensure aisles are clear of bags and obstacles. Sit properly on chairs and avoid rocking. Report broken furniture or equipment. Handle laboratory equipment (if any related to PHE) with care and supervision.
Playground Safety: Use playground equipment according to instructions. Avoid pushing or rough play. Report damaged equipment. Ensure adult supervision during play. Keep the play area free of debris and hazards.
Fire Safety: Know the school's evacuation plan and assembly points. Participate in fire drills. Understand the location of fire extinguishers (but only trained personnel should use them).
On the Sports Ground (Sports Safety): Warm-up and Cool-down: Always perform appropriate warm-up exercises before engaging in strenuous physical activity and cool-down stretches afterward.
Appropriate Gear: Wear suitable protective equipment (e.g., helmets for cycling, shin guards for football, appropriate footwear).
Equipment Check: Regularly inspect sports equipment and facilities for damage or hazards.
Rules Adherence: Obey all rules of the game and fair play principles.
Supervision: Ensure qualified supervision during sports activities.
Hydration: Drink enough water before, during, and after exercise to prevent dehydration.
Environmental Awareness: Be aware of weather conditions and the playing surface.
On the Road (Road Safety): Pedestrian Safety: Use sidewalks or pedestrian walkways where available. If not, walk facing oncoming traffic. Look left, right, then left again before crossing the road. Cross at designated points (zebra crossings, pedestrian bridges). Avoid distractions (phones, headphones) while walking near roads.
Cyclist Safety: Wear a helmet and reflective clothing, especially at night. Obey traffic laws and signals. Signal turns clearly. Ensure bicycle is well-maintained (brakes, tyres, lights).
Passenger Safety: Always wear seatbelts in vehicles. Avoid distracting the driver. Do not put body parts (hands, head) out of moving vehicle windows. Avoid overcrowding public transport.
General Road Use: Never play on or near the road. 2.
3. Sports Injuries and Causes Common sports injuries and their typical causes:
1. Sprains: Damage to ligaments (tissues connecting bones at a joint).
Causes: Twisting or wrenching a joint (e.g., ankle sprain from landing awkwardly after a 3.
1. Teacher Activities Introduction (10 mins): Begin by asking students about their personal experiences or observations of accidents in their homes, schools, or on the road. Use these anecdotes to lead into the definitions of "accident" and "injury." Show pictures or short videos (if facilities allow) of common accidents and injuries in Nigeria.
Concept Explanation (20 mins): Systematically explain each key concept (definitions, safety measures, types of injuries, first aid, prevention) using clear language and relating them to Nigerian contexts. For safety measures, ask students to identify potential hazards in their immediate environment (classroom, school compound). For sports injuries, use examples of popular Nigerian sports like football, athletics, or basketball. For first aid, demonstrate simple techniques (e.g., bandaging a cut, applying RICE to a simulated ankle injury using a volunteer).
Group Discussion/Brainstorming (15 mins): Divide students into small groups. Assign each group a scenario (e.g., a child burned by hot water at home, a student sprains an ankle during recess, a pedestrian injured by a reckless driver).
Each group discusses: What happened (accident/injury)? What safety measures could have prevented it? What immediate first aid would they provide? Practical Demonstration/Role-play (15 mins): Demonstrate basic first aid techniques such as cleaning a minor cut, bandaging a limb, and applying the RICE principle for a sprain. Have students role-play specific scenarios and practice applying the learned first aid steps and safety measures.
Wrap-up & Q&A (5 mins): Facilitate a brief class discussion on key takeaways and answer any student questions. Emphasize the importance of seeking professional medical help after first aid. 3.
2. Student Activities Participate in Class Discussion: Share observations and experiences related to accidents and safety.
Group Work: Actively engage in group discussions, analyze scenarios, and propose solutions for prevention and first aid.
Role-Play: Practice simulating first aid responses to various injuries and demonstrate safety measures.
Brainstorming: Contribute ideas for safety measures specific to different environments (home, school, road, sports ground).
Observation: Pay close attention to teacher demonstrations of first aid techniques.
Note-taking: Record key definitions, safety measures, and first aid steps.
Scenario Analysis: Work through given scenarios, identifying accident types, causes, and appropriate responses.
This topic extends beyond the classroom, with tangible benefits for students and their communities in Nigeria.
Community Safety Advocates: Students can become advocates for safety in their communities. For example, they can help identify hazards in public spaces (e.g., uncovered drains, broken playground equipment) and report them to community leaders or local authorities. They can also educate younger children or peers on basic safety rules, especially related to road use and play areas.
Home Safety Checks: Students can apply their knowledge by conducting a "safety audit" at home. They can identify potential hazards (e.g., overloaded sockets, unsecured sharp objects, slippery floors) and discuss with family members how to mitigate these risks. This fosters a sense of responsibility and practical application of learning.
School Safety Committee Contributions: Students can contribute meaningfully to their school's safety initiatives. This could involve participating in a school safety committee, helping to design safety posters, or assisting in organizing fire drills and ensuring clear evacuation routes. Their understanding of accident prevention and first aid makes them valuable contributors to creating a safer school environment.