An emergency is a situation in which you have to think and act fast. Start by assessing the circumstances. Shout for help if you’re in a public place. Look for any possible dangers to you or the victim, such as a live electrical wire or a fire. Seek medical assistance as quickly as possible. Dial 911, the operator, or a local emergency phone number, and keep it near every phone in your house. Don’t attempt rescue techniques, such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), unless you are trained. If you have a car, be sure you know the shortest route from your home to the nearest 24-hour hospital emergency department.
Every home should have a kit of basic first aid supplies kept in a convenient location out of the reach of children. Stock it with at least the following:
- Bandages.
- Sterile gauze pads and bandages.
- Adhesive tape.
- Scissors.
- Cotton balls or absorbent cotton.
- Cotton swabs.
- Thermometer.
- Syrup of ipecac to induce vomiting.
- Antibiotic ointments.
- Sharp needle.
- Safety pins.
- Calamine lotion.
Keep a similar kit in your car or boat. You might want to add some extra items from your homes, such as a flashlight, soap, blanket, paper cups, and any special equipment that a family member with an illness may need.
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