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Children's Health System - Alabama

Children's of Alabama
Healthcare as amazing as their potential
1600 7th Avenue South
Birmingham, AL 35233
(205) 638 - 9100

How to Handle an Emergency

A medical emergency means someone needs care from a doctor right away. Let's find out what to do if one happens.


If you make an emergency phone call, here's what to do:

  • Take a deep breath to calm down a little.
  • Call 911.
  • Tell the operator there's an emergency.
  • Follow all of the operator's instructions carefully.


If the scene is safe, and you're sure someone called 911 (or you called it yourself), stay with the person who's injured and wait for help to arrive. Don't move someone who could have a neck or other bone injury — for instance, from a fall. Moving someone who has that sort of injury can make it much worse. Try to stay calm.

Being Prepared for an Emergency


Here are some ways to be ready to help in an emergency:

  • Know how to call 911 or your local emergency number (in most areas in the United States, it's 911).
  • If you have one, carry a cellphone or know how to use your parent's cellphone.

It's scary to think about someone getting hurt. But the truth is that accidents can and do happen. So it's good to know what to do if someone needs emergency medical help. Even though you're a kid, you can make a big difference by doing the right thing.

Date reviewed: February 2019