A–Z Glossary

Emergency medical services

Emergency services provide immediate professional assistance through responders such as paramedics, firefighters, or police.

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When to go to ER baby

When to go to ER baby

Breathing and circulation emergencies Breathing problems are among the clearest reasons to seek emergency care. Go to the ER or call emergency services immediately if your baby is struggling to breathe, breathing unusually fast or slowly, grunting, or repeatedly pausing. Signs of increased work of breathing include nostril flaring, ribs or skin between the ribs […]

Emergency numbers kids should know

Emergency numbers kids should know

Why children should learn emergency numbers In an emergency, adults may be injured, confused, unconscious, absent, or unable to use a phone. A child who knows how to summon help can reduce delay during time-critical situations such as cardiac arrest, severe breathing difficulty in children, major bleeding, a serious allergic reaction, fire, or an immediate […]

Preparing children for emergencies

Preparing children for emergencies

Start with calm, age-appropriate communication Children often notice adult fear and uncertainty, even when conversations are not directed at them. Introduce preparedness as a normal family safety activity, similar to learning a home address or practising a fire escape route. Use concrete language: explain that an emergency is a situation in which people may need […]

Teaching children how to call emergency services and give clear information

Teaching children how to call emergency services and give clear information

Start with a calm, simple definition of an emergency Children need a clear definition that they can remember under pressure. Explain that an emergency is a situation in which someone is in immediate danger or needs urgent medical help. Examples include a fire, choking, severe trouble breathing, a serious accident, or a person who is […]