In Case of Emergency 🆘
An emergency is a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation that needs immediate action. It can be a natural event, like an earthquake or flood, or a man-made one, like a fire or car accident. Knowing what to do in an emergency is very important because it can help you stay safe and protect others.
Types of Emergencies
- Natural Emergencies: These are caused by nature. Examples include earthquakes, which are a sudden shaking of the ground, and floods, when water covers land that is usually dry.
- Medical Emergencies: These involve a person's health. A heart attack, for example, is a serious medical emergency where the heart stops working correctly.
- Public Safety Emergencies: These are threats to the community. A fire, for instance, is a serious public safety emergency that can destroy property and harm people.
What to Do
The first step in any emergency is to stay calm. Panicking can make it difficult to think clearly. Take a moment to assess the situation. Is it safe to stay where you are, or do you need to evacuate?
Next, you need to contact emergency services. In many countries, you can call a special number like 911 (in the US and Canada), 999 (in the UK), or 112 (in Europe). When you call, be prepared to give the operator important information:
- Your location: Tell them exactly where the emergency is happening.
- The type of emergency: Describe what is happening (e.g., "There's a fire at 123 Main Street" or "Someone has fallen and is hurt").
- Your name and phone number: This helps them if they need to call you back.
After calling for help, follow the instructions given by the emergency services. They are trained to handle these situations. If it is safe, you can try to help others, but do not put yourself in danger.
Be Prepared
You can also prepare for emergencies before they happen.
- Have an emergency kit: This can include a flashlight, first-aid supplies, and extra batteries.
- Know your emergency contacts: Keep a list of important phone numbers, including family members and friends.
- Create a family emergency plan: Decide on a meeting place and discuss what to do in different types of emergencies.
Being prepared and knowing the right steps to take can make a big difference when an unexpected event occurs. Remember, your safety is the most important thing.
Vocabulary List
These words will help you understand the article. Tap the speaker to hear each word.
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Emergency
/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi/
A serious, unexpected, and dangerous situation that requires immediate action.
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Immediate
/ɪˈmiːdiət/
Happening at once; without delay.
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Action
/ˈækʃən/
The process of doing something.
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Earthquake
/ˈɜːrθkweɪk/
A sudden shaking of the ground.
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Flood
/flʌd/
When water covers land that is usually dry.
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Medical
/ˈmedɪkəl/
Relating to health and medicine.
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Heart Attack
/ˈhɑːrt ətæk/
A serious medical condition where the heart stops working correctly.
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Public Safety
/ˈpʌblɪk ˈseɪfti/
The protection of the community from danger or harm.
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Fire
/faɪər/
Combustion that produces heat and light.
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Stay Calm
/steɪ kɑːm/
To remain relaxed and not panic.
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Assess
/əˈses/
To evaluate or judge a situation.
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Evacuate
/ɪˈvækjueɪt/
To move from a dangerous place to a safe one.
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Contact
/ˈkɒntækt/
To communicate with someone.
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Emergency Services
/ɪˈmɜːrdʒənsi ˈsɜːrvɪsɪz/
Organizations (like police, fire, and ambulance) that respond to emergencies.
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Prepared
/prɪˈpeərd/
Ready for something that may happen.
Comprehension Questions
Answer these questions about "In Case of Emergency."
- What is an emergency? Give two examples.
- What is the most important first step in any emergency?
- What three pieces of information should you give to an emergency operator?
- Why is it important to have an emergency kit?
- What is a "family emergency plan"?