What to Do and NOT Do in an Emergency

Emergencies can strike anywhere  at home, school, work, or even in public. Knowing how to respond effectively can make the difference between life and death. At SOS First Aid, we train individuals and teams to handle emergencies confidently. Here’s a practical guide on what you should and shouldn’t do when faced with a crisis.

What to Do in an Emergency: A Practical First Aid Guide

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

   Panic can worsen emergencies. Take a deep breath, observe your surroundings, and identify any immediate dangers. Ensure your safety first, for example, don’t rush into a fire or traffic accident without protection.

2. Call for Help Immediately

   Contact emergency services as soon as possible. In most parts of Ontario, dial 911 or local emergency number. Provide clear information: location, type of emergency, number of people involved, and any visible injuries. Quick and accurate reporting saves precious minutes.

3. Provide Basic First Aid if Trained

   If you’ve taken a course like our Standard First Aid with CPR and AED, you can:

   • Perform CPR if someone isn’t breathing
   • Use an AED for sudden cardiac arrest
   • Control bleeding with direct pressure
   • Keep the injured person comfortable and warm

   Even if you aren’t formally trained, simple actions like gently moving someone out of danger or applying pressure to a wound can be lifesaving.

4. Follow Emergency Protocols

   In workplaces or schools, follow established emergency plans. These may include evacuation procedures, contacting designated first aiders, or alerting on-site security. Familiarizing yourself with these protocols in advance increases your effectiveness.

What NOT to Do in an Emergency

1. Don’t Rush Without Assessing

   Running straight into danger without evaluating the risks can create more victims. Always ensure it’s safe before assisting.

2. Don’t Ignore the Situation

   Even small incidents can escalate. If someone is choking, unconscious, or showing signs of a heart attack, hesitation can have serious consequences. Immediate action matters.

3. Don’t Move Injured Individuals Unnecessarily

   Unless there’s an immediate threat (fire, building collapse, traffic), avoid moving someone with a suspected spinal or head injury. Improper handling can worsen injuries.

4. Don’t Give Food or Drink to an Injured Person

   If someone is unconscious or might need surgery, food or drink can be dangerous. Wait for medical professionals to arrive.

5. Don’t Rely Solely on Online Advice During a Crisis

   While articles and videos are excellent learning tools, emergencies require real-time, hands-on response. This is why hands-on training, like our CPR and AED courses, is invaluable.

Emergencies are unpredictable, but preparation makes all the difference. Staying calm, calling for help, applying first aid appropriately, and avoiding common mistakes can save lives. At SOS First Aid, we offer a range of Red Cross WSIB-approved courses to equip you with the confidence and skills to act when it matters most.

For more guidance on first aid and safety, check out our other helpful resources on our blog, including Information about AED  and information about Blended training.

Remember: being prepared is being empowered.