If you find someone injured or seriously ill, what is the first action you should take?

The first action to take when you encounter someone who is injured or seriously ill is to call for help, which is why contacting 911 immediately is essential. This action ensures that professional medical assistance is on the way as quickly as possible. Time is often a critical factor in emergency situations, and notifying emergency services allows trained responders to arrive and provide the necessary care.

Calling for help first can also protect you and the individual by ensuring that any additional resources are mobilized, such as ambulances or specialized responders. Once help has been called, you can then assess the situation, monitor the individual, and provide first aid if you are trained to do so. This structured approach can significantly increase the chances of a positive outcome for the injured or ill person.