• Step 1: Stay calm. Speak clearly when calling.
• Step 2: Give your exact location (address, nearby landmark, mile marker).
• Step 3: State the type of emergency (fire, accident, injury, medical crisis).
• Step 4: Answer all questions the dispatcher asks — they are trained to guide you.
• Step 5: Do not hang up until told to — the operator may provide life-saving instructions.

⚓ Remember: Your calm voice may be the anchor someone else needs in panic.

• Always know the contact numbers for your local fire, police, and medical services.
• Keep them written in a wallet card, on the fridge, and saved in your phone.
• Local responders often arrive faster than distant help, especially in rural areas.

⚓ Preparedness is peace of mind — store contacts before you need them.

• Step 1: Check responsiveness — Tap and shout, “Are you okay?”
• Step 2: Call 911 or direct someone nearby to call.
• Step 3: Check breathing — If none or only gasping, begin CPR.
• Step 4: Position hands — Place heel of one hand in the center of chest, other hand on top.
• Step 5: Compressions — Push hard and fast, at least 2 inches deep, at a pace of 100–120 per minute (like the beat of a steady drum).
• Step 6: Rescue breaths (optional if trained) — After 30 compressions, give 2 breaths by tilting the head back, lifting the chin, sealing your mouth over theirs, and blowing until chest rises.
• Step 7: Continue cycles of 30 compressions + 2 breaths until help arrives or the person begins breathing.

⚓ Hands-only CPR is always better than doing nothing.

• Step 1: Turn it on immediately — it will guide you with voice prompts.
• Step 2: Expose chest and dry if wet.
• Step 3: Place pads as shown on diagrams (one upper right chest, one lower left side).
• Step 4: Allow the AED to analyze — do not touch the person.
• Step 5: If shock advised, make sure everyone is clear, then press the button.
• Step 6: Resume CPR immediately after shock or if no shock is advised.

⚓ The AED is your partner — follow its voice calmly and steadily.

• For Adults/Children:
   
  • Stand behind the person, wrap arms around their waist.
  • Make a fist and place just above the navel.
  • Deliver quick, upward thrusts (“Heimlich maneuver”).
  • Repeat until object is expelled or the person becomes unresponsive.
• If unresponsive: Begin CPR and check for object in mouth before giving breaths.
• For Infants: Use back blows and chest thrusts (different technique — see Infant Section).

⚓ Quick action can turn panic into relief — act fast and firm.

• Place the person in the recovery position (on their side, head tilted back, mouth open to allow fluids to drain).
• Keep them warm with a blanket or clothing.
• Monitor breathing and responsiveness continuously.
• Reassure them calmly — they may be confused or frightened when regaining consciousness.
• Provide any medical responders with details of what happened and care given.⚓ Survival is just the first step — comfort and care guide them back to peace.

• Step 1: Remove from danger — Get the person away from heat, fire, or chemicals.
• Step 2: Cool the burn — Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for 10–20 minutes. Do not use butter, oil, or ointments.
• Step 3: Protect the area — Cover loosely with a clean, non-stick sterile dressing or cloth.
• Step 4: Avoid breaking blisters — They protect against infection.
• Step 5: Get medical help if: burn is large, deep, on face, hands, feet, or genitals.

⚓ Cool, cover, and call for help if needed.

• Step 1: Wash hands or put on gloves if available.
• Step 2: Apply pressure with a clean cloth or bandage until bleeding slows.
• Step 3: Clean the wound gently with water. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
• Step 4: Cover with a sterile bandage or clean cloth.
• Step 5: Seek medical help if: cut is deep, won’t stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

⚓ Firm pressure saves blood, gentle care prevents infection.

• Eyes:
   
  • Flush immediately with clean, cool water for at least 15–20 minutes.
  • Keep eyelids open while rinsing.
  • Do not rub.
  • Seek emergency care.
• Skin:
   
  • Remove contaminated clothing.
  • Rinse skin thoroughly with cool water for 15 minutes.
  • Do not apply creams or neutralizing chemicals unless directed by a professional.
  • Call poison control or emergency help if irritation is severe.

⚓ Water is your best first response — flush until help arrives.

• Step 1: Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by poison control.
• **Step 2: Call Poison Control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.) or 911 immediately.
• Step 3: Provide details: what substance, how much, and when it was taken.
• **Step 4: Do not give food or drink unless advised.
• Step 5: Keep sample/container of the substance for medical personnel.

⚓ Quick, calm reporting saves precious time in treatment.

• Fainting:
   
  • Lay the person flat, elevate legs.
  • Loosen tight clothing.
  • Check breathing. If not breathing, begin CPR.
• Fever:
   
  • Give fluids and rest.
  • Light clothing, cool compress.
  • Seek care if fever is very high or with confusion, stiff neck, or seizure.
• Head Injuries:
   
  • Keep person still.
  • Apply cold pack gently.
  • Watch for vomiting, confusion, loss of consciousness — call 911 immediately if present.

⚓ Treat fainting with calm, fever with fluids, and head injuries with caution.

• Step 1: Check responsiveness — Tap the baby gently, call their name.
• Step 2: Call for help — Dial 911 if no response.
• Step 3: Open airway — Place baby on back, tilt head slightly back, lift chin gently.
• Step 4: Give 2 rescue breaths — Seal your mouth over baby’s mouth & nose, give gentle puffs (just enough to see chest rise).
• Step 5: Chest compressions — Use 2 fingers in the center of the chest, just below nipple line. Press about 1.5 inches deep.
• Step 6: Cycle 30 compressions, 2 breaths — Continue until help arrives.

⚓ Gentle, steady, life-saving care — small body, small breaths, small pushes.

• Step 1: Check if baby can cry or cough. If yes, encourage coughing — do not interfere.
• Step 2: If no sound or weak cry, begin choking rescue:
   
  • Lay baby face down along your forearm, head lower than chest.
  • Support head and neck.
  • Give 5 firm back blows between shoulder blades with heel of hand.
  • If object doesn’t come out, turn baby face up.
  • Give 5 chest thrusts (using 2 fingers at center of chest).
• Step 3: Repeat 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until object is expelled or baby becomes unresponsive.
• Step 4: If baby becomes unresponsive, begin CPR and call 911.

⚓ Firm but gentle actions can save your baby’s life.

• Colic/crying: Warm bath, gentle tummy massage, rocking.
• Teething: Chilled teething ring, clean cold washcloth to chew.
• Congestion: Saline drops + bulb syringe, humidifier in room.
• Mild fever/comfort: Light clothing, fluids (breast milk/formula), cuddles.
• Sleep aid: Calming music, swaddling (until rolling begins), consistent bedtime.

⚓ Nature’s gentle remedies support growing bodies.

• Step 1: Check responsiveness — Tap shoulder, call their name.
• Step 2: Call 911 — or have someone else call immediately.
• Step 3: Check breathing & pulse — If absent or irregular, begin CPR.
• Step 4: Chest compressions — Place heel of one hand on chest center, other hand on top. Push down about 2 inches, at a rate of 100–120 compressions per minute (think steady rhythm).
• Step 5: Rescue breaths — After 30 compressions, tilt head back, lift chin, give 2 breaths. Continue 30:2 cycle.
• Step 6: Use AED if available — Follow voice prompts.

⚓ Gentle but firm CPR helps circulate blood until help arrives.

• Minor cuts/scrapes: Wash gently with warm water, apply clean bandage.
• Falls: Check for injury before moving; if unsure, keep them still until help arrives.
• Bruises: Apply cool compress for 10–20 minutes.
• Skin tears: Clean with sterile saline, cover loosely with non-stick dressing.
• Medication reminder: Keep updated medication list in first aid kit.

⚓ Elders’ skin and bones are fragile — treat with extra care.

• Check blood sugar regularly (as directed by doctor).
• Encourage balanced diet: lean proteins, vegetables, whole grains, low sugar.
• Watch for low blood sugar signs: shakiness, sweating, confusion — offer juice or glucose tablet.
• Watch for high blood sugar signs: thirst, frequent urination, fatigue — seek medical advice if persistent.
• Encourage safe activity (walks, chair exercises).
• Keep medical supplies organized and accessible.

⚓ Consistent monitoring helps prevent emergencies.

• Step 1: Check responsiveness — Gently tap or call their name.
• Step 2: Check breathing and heartbeat — Place hand on chest behind front leg.
• Step 3: Position — Lay animal on right side, extend head and neck.
• Step 4: Chest compressions
   
  • Small animals (<30 lbs): Use one hand around chest, squeeze 100–120/min.
  • Larger animals: Place one hand over the other on chest, compress 1/3 chest depth.
• Step 5: Rescue breaths — Close mouth, extend neck, cover nose with your mouth, blow until chest rises.
• Step 6: Ratio — 30 compressions to 2 breaths.
• Step 7: Continue until breathing/heartbeat returns or vet care arrives.

⚓ Animal CPR is similar to human CPR, but with gentler force for small pets.

• Step 1: Open mouth carefully — Look for object, remove only if easy to grasp.
• Step 2: If not visible —
   
  • Small dog/cat: Hold upside down by hips, gently shake.
  • Larger dog: Lift rear legs (wheelbarrow style), shake downward.
• Step 3: Heimlich maneuver for dogs
   
  • Stand behind dog, put fists under ribcage, push inward/upward quickly.
• Step 4: Check airway again — If still blocked, continue until clear.
• Step 5: If unconscious — Start animal CPR.

⚓ Be careful not to push object further down throat.

• Some dogs require special diets for health conditions (allergies, diabetes, kidney issues).
• Always consult vet before changing food.
• Common adjustments:
   
  • Hypoallergenic: Grain-free, limited ingredient.
  • Diabetic: Low-carb, high-protein.
  • Kidney support: Low-protein, low-phosphorus.
• Avoid feeding: chocolate, grapes, onions, xylitol, fatty scraps.

⚓ The right diet prevents emergencies and keeps pets thriving.

• Heat safety:
   
  • Provide shade and water.
  • Never leave animals in cars.
  • Watch for heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, weakness — cool with wet towels, get vet care.
• Cold safety:
   
  • Provide shelter from wind and snow.
  • Limit outdoor time in freezing weather.
  • Watch for frostbite: pale skin on ears, paws, tail — warm gently, seek vet care.

⚓ Animals can’t always regulate temperature — humans must help.

• Before fireworks:
   
  • Bring pets indoors.
  • Close windows, curtains, turn on TV/radio for sound masking.
  • Provide safe hiding spot (crate with blanket).
• During fireworks:
   
  • Stay calm — your pet reads your energy.
  • Use distractions (treats, toys).
  • Consider vet-approved calming aids if very anxious.
• After:
   
  • Check yard for firework debris before letting pets outside.

⚓ Preparation prevents fear and injury during noisy events.

• Before:
   
  • Check weather alerts. Avoid unnecessary travel.
  • Carry emergency kit: blankets, food, water, flashlight.
• During Storm:
   
  • Stay indoors, away from windows.
  • If driving: pull over safely, stay in vehicle, run engine periodically for heat (crack window for ventilation).
• Avalanche:
   
  • Move sideways to escape path.
  • If caught, use swimming motions to stay near surface.
  • Create an air pocket with hands near face.

⚓ Preparation and calm thinking save lives in winter extremes.

• Before:
   
  • Know evacuation routes.
  • Move valuables to higher ground.
• During Flood:
   
  • Never walk or drive through floodwaters (“Turn Around, Don’t Drown”).
  • Seek higher ground immediately.
  • Avoid contact with water—may be contaminated.
• After Flood:
   
  • Do not return home until cleared by authorities.
  • Watch for downed power lines, unstable structures, and mold hazards.

⚓ Water is powerful—respect its force.

• Safety First:
   
  • Park at safe distance, turn on hazard lights.
  • Do not put yourself in danger.
• Initial Steps:
   
  • Call 911.
  • Check if it’s safe to approach (fire, leaking fuel = stay back).
• Assisting Victims:
   
  • Do not move unless immediate danger (fire/explosion risk).
  • Keep them calm, monitor breathing.
  • Apply pressure to severe bleeding if safe.

⚓ Secure the scene, then assist the people.

• If You See Someone Drowning:
   
  • Call for help immediately.
  • Use “Reach, Throw, Don’t Go”: extend an object (stick, rope, life preserver) instead of jumping in if possible.
• If You Must Enter Water:
   
  • Approach from behind to avoid being grabbed.
  • Keep victim’s head above water.
• On Land:
   
  • Check breathing. If none, begin CPR with rescue breaths.
  • Treat for shock—cover with blanket.

⚓ Calm rescue saves both victim and rescuer.

Every household, vehicle, and workplace should have one. Include:

• Adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, tape
• Antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment
• Tweezers, scissors, safety pins
• Elastic bandages (sprains)
• Instant cold pack, thermal blanket
• Gloves (non-latex), CPR mask
• Pain relievers, allergy medication
• Personal medications + copies of prescriptions

⚓ A ready kit is peace of mind in a box.

• Water First:
   
  • Find flowing water (stream, river). Avoid stagnant pools.
  • If unsure, always purify: boil for 1–3 minutes, use purification tablets, or filter.
  • Collect rainwater if possible.
• Food:
   
  • Focus on safe plants you recognize (berries, nuts, roots).
  • Fish, insects, and small game are reliable protein sources.
  • Avoid plants with milky sap, bitter taste, or unknown mushrooms.

⚓ Water is survival priority #1.

• Without Compass:
   
  • Sun rises in east, sets in west.
  • At night, find North Star (Polaris) using Big Dipper.
• Natural Clues:
   
  • Moss grows more on north side of trees (not always reliable).
  • Rivers/streams usually lead to larger bodies of water or human settlements.
• If Lost:
   
  • Stop. Stay calm.
  • Leave markers (piles of rocks, broken branches) if moving.

⚓ Direction helps you choose survival or rescue path wisely. 

• Stockpile Basics:
   
  • Keep at least 2 weeks of shelf-stable food: rice, beans, pasta, oats, canned vegetables/fruit, peanut butter, protein bars.
  • Include comfort foods (tea, coffee, chocolate) for morale.
• Water:
   
  • Minimum 1 gallon per person per day for drinking/cooking.
  • Store in clean, sealed containers.
  • Rotate supply every 6 months.
• Special Needs:
   
  • Infant formula, pet food, dietary-specific items.
• Rotation Tip:
   
  • Use oldest items first and replace to keep stock fresh.

⚓ Food and water = foundation of resilience.

• Personal Hygiene:
   
  • Soap, shampoo, toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, feminine hygiene products, diapers if needed.
• Cleaning Supplies:
   
  • Disinfectant spray/wipes, bleach (can be diluted for surface cleaning), hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol).
• Laundry:
   
  • Extra detergent. Consider hand-washing supplies (bucket, clothesline).
• Waste Management:
   
  • Trash bags, gloves, and disinfectant.
  • If toilets unavailable, line bucket with bags + cat litter or sawdust.

⚓ Clean spaces reduce spread of illness and protect mental well-being.

• Routine:
   
  • Keep daily schedule (meals, sleep, exercise).
  • Limit constant news—check updates once or twice a day.
• Stress Management:
   
  • Breathing exercises, journaling, meditation.
  • Stay connected with loved ones virtually or by phone.
• Activities:
   
  • Puzzles, books, games, creative hobbies.
• Support:
   
  • Reach out to local mental health hotlines if anxiety/depression worsens.

⚓ A calm mind strengthens the body and spirit.

• Common Symptoms:
   
  • Fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, headache, loss of taste/smell, difficulty breathing.
• When to Seek Help:
   
  • Persistent high fever.
  • Shortness of breath or chest pain.
  • Confusion, bluish lips/face.
• Monitoring:
   
  • Use thermometer regularly.
  • Record symptoms daily.
• Isolation Protocols:
   
  • Separate sick individual in well-ventilated room.
  • Wear masks when interacting.
  • Sanitize surfaces often.

⚓ Early recognition can save lives.

• Write Down & Store in Multiple Places:
   
  • Local emergency services (fire, police, ambulance).
  • Personal physician & pharmacy.
  • Family/friends (out-of-town contact recommended).
  • Utility companies (gas, electric, water).
  • Insurance provider(s).
• Pro Tips:
   
  • Keep in your wallet, car, and taped near the phone.
  • Save in your cell phone but also keep a paper copy (in case phone dies).
  • Share with household members.

⚓ Quick access saves time during emergencies.

• Know Your Neighbors:
   
  • Exchange phone numbers and basic emergency info (e.g., who has medical training, generator, or tools).
  • Identify who may need extra help (elderly, disabled, children).
• Local Resources:
   
  • Community centers, churches, shelters, and local government support groups.
• Plan Together:
   
  • Agree on meeting points in case of evacuation.
  • Create a neighborhood contact chain (group text/email).

⚓ Stronger together than alone.

• Pets:
   
  • Extra food, water, and medications (2 weeks supply).
  • Copies of vet records & ID tags.
  • Portable carrier or leash for evacuation.
• Family:
   
  • Copies of birth certificates, IDs, insurance, bank info stored in waterproof pouch.
  • Backup of essential prescriptions and medical info.
  • Comfort items for children (toys, blankets).

⚓ Caring for loved ones—human and animal—keeps morale high.

• Personal Checklist:
   
  • Phone numbers
  • IDs & documents
  • Medications & prescriptions
  • Clothing & hygiene items
• Emergency Bag (“Go Bag”):
   
  • Food, water, flashlight, first aid kit, whistle, multitool, cash, spare keys.
• Home Preparedness Checklist:
   
  • Smoke detectors tested monthly.
  • Fire extinguisher accessible.
  • Emergency exits clear.
  • Supply kit checked & rotated every 6 months.

⚓ Checklists ensure nothing is forgotten in crisis.

• What It Means: Immediate support for someone in distress (abuse, violence, accident, trauma).
• Steps:
   
  1. Call 911 if there is immediate danger.
  2. Reach out to trusted hotlines (e.g., National Domestic Violence Hotline, Suicide Prevention Lifeline).
  3. If safe, stay physically present with the victim until professional help arrives.
  4. Offer comfort (blanket, water, calm words: “You are safe now, help is on the way”).

• Optional: Join or suggest therapy/resource circles for long-term support. We are here!

⚓ The first act of support is safety.

• What They Provide: Shelter, counseling, food, medical care, advocacy.
• How to Access:
   
  • Local crisis centers & nonprofit agencies.
  • Hospitals and law enforcement often keep lists of contacts.
  • Online directories (city or county victim services pages).
• Steps for Victims:
   
  • Call to confirm intake procedure.
  • Ask about confidentiality and safety protocols.
  • Arrange transportation if needed.

⚓ Victim services offer both immediate aid and ongoing healing resources.

• When to Use:
   
  • Human trafficking, kidnapping, cyber crimes, organized crime, terrorism, or ongoing threats.
• Steps:
   
  • Dial local police for urgent matters.
  • For federal crimes, contact the FBI tip line (1-800-CALL-FBI) or local field office.
  • Gather details: names, dates, descriptions, digital evidence if safe to do so.
  • Provide information calmly and factually.
• Tip: Always request a case number for future reference.

⚓ Reporting ensures accountability and protection for others at risk.

• Who They Are: Lawyers, legal aid clinics, victim rights organizations.
• How They Help:
   
  • File restraining orders.
  • Guide victims through court processes.
  • Provide legal protection for custody, property, or workplace safety.
• Steps:
   
  • Find local legal aid services (many are free or sliding scale).
  • Prepare documents: ID, police reports, medical reports, any evidence.
  • Ask about victim witness advocates through  the courthouse—they can accompany victims.

⚓ Legal advocates give victims a voice and a shield.

• Purpose: Safe housing, food, and immediate protection.
• Steps:
   
  1. Search online or call hotlines for nearest shelters (domestic violence, homeless, youth).
  2. Ask about availability, length of stay, and safety policies.
  3. Bring essentials if possible (medications, documents, small bag of clothes).
  4. Follow safety planning advice—shelter addresses are often confidential.

⚓ Shelters provide safety and stability during crisis transition.

• What It Covers: Guidance and emotional support during hearings, trials, or restraining order proceedings.
• Steps:
   
  1. Request a court advocate or victim witness coordinator.
  2. Arrive early, bring documentation and ID.
  3. If afraid, ask about separate waiting rooms away from offender.
  4. Take breaks, bring a supportive friend if allowed.
  5. Ask about restraining orders or victim compensation funds.

⚓ Court support ensures victims don’t face the justice system alone.t

• Warning Signs: Cracks in ground, tilting trees, sudden changes in water flow, rumbling sounds.
• During a Landslide:
   
  1. Move away from the path (uphill if possible).
  2. Do not cross where debris is flowing.
  3. Protect your head with arms or jacket.

• After:
   
  1. Stay away from the slide area (secondary slides may occur).
  2. Report to local authorities.
  3. Watch for flooding—landslides often change river paths.

⚓ Awareness of terrain can save lives.

• Before Swimming/Boating:
   
  • Wear life jackets, especially children.
  • Avoid alcohol when swimming or operating boats.
• Water Hazards:
   
  • Watch for sudden drop-offs and entangling plants.
  • Beware of thin ice in winter—check thickness (4+ inches for walking, 8+ for vehicles).
• Emergency:
   
  • If caught in weeds, stay calm, move slowly, and use hands to free legs.
  • For boating accidents, stay with the vessel until rescued if possible.

⚓ Calmness and preparation make lakes safer. 

• Recognition: Appears shiny, blends with pavement, often forms at night/morning.
• Driving Tips:
   
  1. Slow down, avoid sudden steering.
  2. If skidding—steer gently in the direction you want the car to go.
  3. Do not slam brakes—pump gently if needed.

• Walking Tips:
   
  1. Take short steps, keep knees slightly bent.
  2. Use sand/salt when possible.

⚓ Black ice is invisible but predictable in freezing conditions.