Know What To Do In An Emergency

1. CHECK

Before helping, make sure it’s safe for you to approach. Look for hazards like fire, traffic, unstable structures, or dangerous people. Once the scene is safe, check the person for responsiveness by tapping and shouting. Look for normal breathing, severe bleeding, or other life-threatening problems. This helps you quickly decide what type of care is needed.

2. CALL

If you find any life-threatening condition—such as no breathing, unconsciousness, severe bleeding, or a major injury—call 911 immediately. If someone is with you, ask them to make the call while you stay with the person. If you’re alone with an unresponsive adult, call first before giving care. Put your phone on speaker so you can continue to assist while speaking with the dispatcher.

3. CARE

Begin giving appropriate care based on what you found:

• Start CPR if the person isn’t breathing.

• Use an AED if available and follow the prompts.

• Apply direct pressure to control severe bleeding.

• Keep the person warm, calm, and lying flat to help prevent shock.

• Treat injuries or medical problems based on your training (choking, burns, allergic reactions, broken bones, etc.).

Continue care until professional help arrives, someone else takes over, the scene becomes unsafe, or the person recovers enough that you can stop.