If you’re anything like most, you don’t like to think about the possibility of accidents. For most of us, the idea of getting seriously injured, or even seeing others in such a state, is enough to leave us shaken. So, we carry on like it’ll never happen. With a bit of luck, it won’t. But, life does have a habit of throwing curveballs sometimes. It might be time to stop pretending bad things never happen. The more prepared you are, the better chance you have of saving your life, or someone else’s. So, we’ve put together a three-step guide you should bear in mind at all times. Following these will Ensure you can handle emergencies with ease.

Stay Calm

This point may seem impossible. How can you remain calm if something terrible has happened? Even if you aren’t the injured party, seeing someone else hurt is enough to send you into a panic. But, it’s crucial that you overcome the urge to enter panic mode. Once you go down that dark hole, you’ll be all but useless. You’ll be unable to think straight, or handle anything. In Extreme Cases, panic could also lead to panic attacks which would worsen the situation. Instead, practice deep breathing. Look around to get as good a picture as possible of what’s happened. Calm your thoughts, and decide on your next plan of action.

Call for Help

As you’re staying calm, you’ll be in a fit state to call for help. It may be that you need airevac transport. Air ambulances like these are best for extreme cases, where patients need taking to a hospital immediately. If the case isn’t too severe, you may be able to call 911 for an ambulance. Making a snap call like this isn’t easy, but it’s crucial. Calling 911 may be your best bet to start. Trained phone operators will be able to talk you through the best plan of action. Once you’ve explained, they can tell you whether you should seek air transport, or wait for an ambulance. Have the appropriate numbers stored in your phone at all times. If the time comes, even remembering 911 may be too much. Consider how highly charged an atmosphere like this would be. The most simple information will leave your mind altogether.

Keep Everyone Talking

Once help is on the way, it’s important to keep everyone talking. This may be the last thing on your mind, but it can lighten the load and ensure no one falls unconscious. Menial conversations about the weather may seem out of place, but they’ll make a huge difference. For one, talking like this will take your mind off matters. And, if there are other people involved, it will help them, too. In extreme emergencies, you want to avoid moving or ensure the injured party stays put. Moving before diagnosis could cause more damage than good.

So, mundane chit chat is a good way to pass the time and ensure no one’s tempted to strain themselves.

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