which set of action steps can help you remember what to do during an emergency?

The set of action steps most commonly taught to help you remember what to do during an emergency is: Check – Call – Care.

Quick Scoop

When something scary or chaotic happens, your brain can freeze. A simple three-step script gives you something clear to follow so you can still act.

1. CHECK

• Check the scene first: is it safe for you to approach (no fire, traffic, downed wires, violent situation)?

• Check the person : are they conscious, breathing, bleeding heavily, or in obvious distress?

• Example: You see someone collapse at a store, you quickly scan for hazards, then look for breathing and major bleeding.

2. CALL

• Call 911 or your local emergency number as soon as you identify a real emergency.

• If others are around, point to one person and tell them specifically: “You in the blue shirt, call 911 now,” so no one assumes someone else will do it.

• Be ready to say where you are, what happened, and what you see (age, breathing, bleeding, consciousness).

3. CARE

• Give the care you are trained to give while you wait for help: CPR, using an AED, controlling bleeding, helping them lie still and warm, or basic first aid.

• Follow any instructions from the emergency dispatcher; they can guide you step by step over the phone.

• Example: For suspected cardiac arrest, they may walk you through hands-only CPR until responders arrive.

Why this 3-step set works

• It is short and easy to remember under stress.
• It keeps you from rushing in and getting hurt yourself (Check), wasting time (Call), or forgetting to help the person in front of you (Care).

TL;DR: In most emergencies, remember: Check the scene and person, Call for help, Care for them until professionals arrive.