Guidelines for Common Emergencies and Injuries Â
Guidelines for Common Emergencies and Injuries Â
Unconsciousness/Unresponsiveness
Check for responsiveness (shout and tap/rub sternum).
Call 911 and notify campus security.
Open airway and check for breathing (use head-tilt, chin-lift).
Administer CPR if there is no pulse and/or breathing.
Use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) if available.
Seizures
Protect the person from injury by removing nearby objects.
Do not restrain movements or place anything in their mouth.
After the seizure ends, roll the person onto their side to prevent choking.
Stay with them until fully recovered or help arrives.
Allergic Reactions
Look for signs of anaphylaxis (difficulty breathing, swelling, hives).
Administer epinephrine (EpiPen) if available and trained to do so.
Call 911 immediately, even if symptoms improve.
Cuts and Bleeding
Apply direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth.'
Elevate the injured area if possible.
If bleeding is severe, call 911 immediately.
Fractures and Sprains
Immobilize the affected limb and avoid moving it.
Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling.
Call for medical assistance if the injury appears severe.
Burns
Remove the person from the source of the burn.
Cool the burn under lukewarm running water for 10-20 minutes.
Cover with a sterile, non-adhesive bandage. Do not apply creams or ice.
Panic Attacks
Speak calmly and reassure the individual.
Encourage slow, deep breathing (breathe with them if needed).
Move them to a quiet, safe space until they feel stable.
Suicidal Ideation
Stay with the individual and express concern.
Avoid judgment or dismissive comments.
Call campus mental health services or 911 for immediate help.
Active Shooter
Follow "Run, Hide, Fight" protocol:
Run: Evacuate if it is safe to do so.
Hide: Lock or barricade doors, turn off lights, silence phones.
Fight: As a last resort, attempt to incapacitate the attacker.
Notify law enforcement as soon as it is safe.
Fire
Activate the nearest fire alarm and call 911.
Evacuate the building, assisting others if needed.
Do not use elevators. Gather at the designated assembly point.
Hazardous Material Spill
Avoid the area and secure it from others entering.
Call campus environmental health and safety (EHS) or 911.
Follow EHS guidance for decontamination procedures.
Snowstorms/Ice Storms
Check for weather alerts and campus closures.
Help transport students safely to designated shelters if necessary.
Encourage individuals to stay indoors and avoid hazardous conditions.
Extreme Heat
Provide water and move individuals to air-conditioned spaces.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Call for medical help if symptoms of heat stroke appear (confusion, unconsciousness).
Alcohol Intoxication/Poisoning
Check responsiveness and monitor breathing.
Place the individual in the recovery position (on their side) to prevent choking.
Call 911 if unconscious or showing signs of alcohol poisoning (vomiting, confusion, slow breathing).
Drug Overdose
Administer naloxone (Narcan) for suspected opioid overdoses if available.
Call 911 immediately.
Stay with the individual and monitor their breathing.
Heart Attack
Look for symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea).
Call 911 immediately.
Help the individual sit down and loosen tight clothing.
If trained, administer aspirin (unless allergic) and perform CPR if necessary.
Use the START Triage System:
Green: Minor injuries/walking wounded.
Yellow: Delayed care needed.
Red: Immediate care required.
Black: Deceased or no chance of survival.
Notify emergency command and coordinate resources effectively.
Always prioritize personal safety before assisting others.
Carry a fully stocked first-aid kit and know its location on campus.
Keep emergency contact numbers readily available.
Document all incidents thoroughly and report to campus authorities.
These guidelines aim to help responders handle emergencies effectively while minimizing risks. Regular training and drills are recommended to maintain preparedness.