If You Are Hurt, Tell Helpers What They Need to Know

After a frightening incident, an injured person may feel pressure to stand up, apologise or explain every detail. Chapter 11 asks the person who is hurt to communicate useful information. You are allowed to say that you need help and that movement hurts.

State the urgent concern clearly

Ask someone to call emergency services, or call if you can do so safely. Tell them about breathing difficulty, severe pain or pain in your neck or back. Do not stand or walk just to show that you are all right. Follow the emergency operator’s instructions about remaining still or moving away from immediate danger.

Share information that may help care

If you can, give your name and an emergency contact. Tell responders about relevant allergies, medications or medical conditions. Say when you are unsure. A companion can help relay information, but medical details do not need to be announced to every onlooker.

Prepare a small backup now

Keep a brief emergency card or phone emergency information current so your voice is not the only available source. Let a trusted contact know where to find relevant details. The preparation is for situations in which speaking may be difficult; it is not a guarantee of how a response will unfold. The aim is to make important information easier for the right people to receive.

Reference: Red Cross: checking an injured person.

About the book

This original article is inspired by Chapter 11, “The Knowledge That Saves Lives,” in HarGhar Se EkSainik by Syed Abdul Hakeem, Chairman of Hetch Foundation. The chapter brings the movement’s concern for every waiting family into emergency preparedness, responsible first response and practical learning. Explore the Chapter 10 appeal and learn more through Hetch Foundation.