Don't Panic!

Being prepared is the best way to avoid panic. Being ready for anything will help you to stay calm, sum up the situation quickly, and proceed with more efficient, capable action. Being prepared will ensure you are composed and self-assured, which will help calm the injured party.

In order to be prepared, make sure to post emergency telephone numbers near the phones in your home and office. Important numbers to keep in addition to 911 are the fire department, the nearest hospital, the Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222), and your family doctor.

Fact

You can obtain Medic Alert identification at your pharmacy or doctor's office. These jewelry identification tags are usually engraved with your primary medical conditions (e.g., allergies), ID number, and 24-hour emergency-response-center number.

Encourage family members with serious medical conditions to wear a Medic Alert tag or bracelet, and keep a list of your family members' medical conditions along with your emergency numbers.

Also, have an escape plan from your home and practice it with your children. Keep a fire extinguisher on hand and show all your family members how to use it.

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