WHEN participating in recreational sports this winter, don’t forget to take extra precautions against sport related injuries and learn what to do in the event of an injury.

“Sport related injuries like sprains, strains and breaks tend to dramatically increase during the winter months,” St John (NSW) CEO Sean Gavin said.

“Don’t forget to take the correct precautionary measures when preparing for your sport like warming up with stretches and exercises to prepare your body.”

St John also encourages people to be careful on the snowfields.

“High velocity sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, are potential causes of multiple, life threatening injuries including head, neck and back injuries, profuse blood loss and unconsciousness. In the situation where an individual is seriously injured, skilled and immediate first aid can be the difference between survival and death.” said Mr. Gavin.

In an event of an injury such as a sprain or strain occurring, St John advises to follow the RICE management plan: Rest, Icepack, Compress and Elevate.

St John Ambulance Australia celebrates 125 years of service to the community this month, commemorating thousands of hours of voluntary service, while remaining the leading first aid organisation across Australia.

As part of the celebrations, St John is encouraging the community to get involved with the organisation through one of three ways.

This includes becoming a volunteer, attending a St John first aid training course, or by making a generous donation to the organisation.