Belize Medical Associates

Safety Tips in the event of an Emergency

Emergencies happen when we least expect them, and they require fast thinking and action. But different emergencies call for different approaches. Here are some things to know so you'll be prepared.
* Keep a first-aid kit in the house and know how to use it.
* Make sure there's a list of emergency numbers near each telephone in the house. Have numbers for the police department, the fire department, and Belize Medical Associates handy. If you have a cell phone, it's a good idea to program important numbers into your phone.
* Keep on hand numbers for adults you should call. If you're babysitting, make sure you have the number and location where the child's parents will be and, if possible, a cell phone or pager number. If it's a true emergency - a child you're caring for has stopped breathing, for example - always call 911 first and then call the parent.

* If you're looking after someone with a health condition, know when the person needs to take any medications - particularly medicines for breathing or heart problems.

* Make sure your family or the family you're caring for has a fire escape plan and that children know what to do in case of an emergency.

* Take a first-aid class to learn CPR so you'll be prepared to help someone in an emergency.