Learning simple first aid techniques can give you the skills and confidence to help anyone in your home, your neighborhood and at work.

When a major disaster occurs, your community can change in an instant. Loved ones can be hurt and emergency response can be delayed. Make sure that at least one member of your household is trained in first aid and CPR and in how to use an automated external defibrillator (AED).

The three steps below can help you to react well in an emergency:

• Check the scene for safety and the victim for life-threatening conditions.
• Call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number and request professional assistance.
• Care for the victim if you can reach the person safely.

Community Disaster Education presentations can provide you with more information on how to prepare for disasters.

Contact your local American Red Cross chapter for class descriptions, times, costs and information about first aid, CPR, AED and Community Disaster Education.