A small scratch on the arm, a slight stomach ache or a sprained finger – all of these can be unpleasant. But is it immediately an emergency? There are criteria that can be used to recognise whether an incident is also an emergency. It is particularly important for children to know this difference. Because if you witness an emergency, you need to act quickly to prevent permanent damage.
What is an emergency?
An emergency means that a person needs immediate medical help. While minor injuries such as grazes or bruises may hurt, but are not dangerous, there are clear signs that you need to react immediately.
- Severe shortness of breath: If someone suddenly can't breathe properly or is even gasping for air, you need to act quickly.
- Unconsciousness: If a person does not react, even if you speak to them or touch them, it is an emergency.
- Serious injuries: Severe pain or bleeding, especially in the head, should never be underestimated and is a clear sign of an emergency.
- Sudden chest pain: They can be an indication of a heart attack – every minute counts here, too.
- Person turns pale: If the colour drains from a person's face, it is an emergency.
- Sudden speech disorders or paralyses: If someone can no longer speak or suddenly can no longer move their arms and legs, this indicates a stroke.
How do I act correctly?
In all these cases, call 112 immediately. If it is not immediately clear whether it is an emergency, you should remember the following rule: It is better to call for help once too often than once too little. If there is no mobile phone within reach, people nearby can make the emergency call. In any case, it is a good idea to inform other people around you if you witness an emergency.
How do I stay calm in an emergency?
An emergency is exciting and can be frightening – especially for young people. But with a few simple rules, it's easier for children to keep calm: It is important to take a deep breath first. Then call 112 and answer the questions on the phone as calmly as possible. It helps to realise that help is on the way. In addition, the following always is true: do not put yourself in danger – for example, never run onto a busy road.
The emergency number 112 is valid throughout Europe and is always free of charge – even without credit, without a mobile phone network and even without a SIM card. An emergency call always follows the same procedure: When you call, the employees ask specific questions. It is important to remain calm and answer all questions as well as possible:
- Who is calling?
- Where did something happen?
- What happened?
- How many injured are there?
- Wait for further questions!
Mobile phone leaflet for download: How do I report an accident?
How can I prepare for this?
Fortunately, emergencies are rare. This makes it all the more important to be prepared. Parents and teachers can playfully practise with children how to make an emergency call. Role plays or small scenarios help to internalise the processes. The more often you practise this, the more confident children will feel when things get really serious.