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communitypreparedness

Do you know what to do in an emergency? The few minutes after an injury occurs or at the onset of a medical crisis are frequently the
most important.

THE KEY: know what to do, remain calm, and activate EMS quickly.

You can make a difference in critical moments by remembering four important steps: prevent, prepare, recognize, act

Prevent emergencies. Simply taking a few moments out of each day to look around you, your home, and your workplace may reveal
ways in which you can be healthier and safer.

Prepare for emergencies. After doing everything you can to prevent emergencies, the next step is to prepare for one. Here's some
basic steps:

Keep well-stocked first-aid kits at home, at work, and in your car.
Learn how to recognize emergency warning signs.
Organize family medical information. Make lists of medications (and dosages) taken by you and your family; include allergies.
Identify and eliminate safety hazards in your home.
Take a first-aid class.
Post emergency numbers near the telephone.

Recognize life-threatening emergencies.

Not every cut needs stitches, nor does every burn require advanced medical treatment. If you think someone could suffer significant
harm or die unless prompt care is received, that situation is an emergency. Call your local emergency medical services (EMS) and
let trained professionals attend to the patient's needs. In most communities, dial 9-1-1 or other local emergency numbers for help.
Get help fast when the following warning signs are seen:

Chest pain lasting 2 minutes or more.
Uncontrolled bleeding.
Sudden or severe pain.
Coughing or vomiting blood.
Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath.
Sudden dizziness, weakness, or change in vision.
Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea.
Change in mental status (e.g., confusion, difficulty arousing).

Decide to Act.

Be ready, willing, and able to help someone until emergency services arrive. Action can mean anything from calling paramedics,
applying direct pressure on a wound, performing CPR, or splinting an injury. Never perform a medical procedure if you're unsure
about how to do it.

Do not move anyone involved in a car accident, serious fall, or is found unconscious unless there is immediate danger of
further injury.
Do not give the victim anything to eat or drink.
Protect the victim by keeping him or her covered.
If the victim is bleeding, apply a clean cloth or sterile bandage. If possible, elevate the injury and apply direct pressure
on the wound.
If the victim is not breathing or does not have a pulse, begin rescue breathing or CPR.

Click here for additional information about some basic first aid procedures that may help save a life.

For more information or to have a ProMed Community Education Partner speak to your group or organization, give us a call today toll free 1-800-634-0436