Quick Learning Guide to Medical Emergencies

What is a medical emergency?

A medical emergency is a sudden injury or illness that requires immediate attention. Knowing the signs and how to react can help keep someone safe or even save a life.

Why learn this?

1. Emergencies can happen anywhere: in school, sports, at home, or out with friends.

2. Knowing what to do gives you confidence and helps you stay calm.

3. You may not be able to treat someone, but you can recognize the signs and take the right first steps.

Common medical emergencies everyone should know:

• Recognize when CPR and an AED may be needed

• Safely position someone who is unconscious or unresponsive

• Respond to severe bleeding and wounds

• Help someone who is choking

• Identify the signs of a stroke or seizure

• Understand how to respond to burns, fractures, and anaphylaxis (severe allergic reaction)

• Recognize the symptoms of an opioid overdose

• Assist someone experiencing a fainting episode or dizziness

• Spot signs of heatstroke, dehydration, or hypothermia

• And most importantly: Know when and how to call 911 or seek adult help

Want to learn more?

Reading about emergencies is a great first step, but nothing replaces proper hands-on training. We strongly encourage youth and adults alike to seek certified first aid or CPR training from recognized providers across Ontario.

You can explore official courses from:

• Canadian Red Cross

• St. John Ambulance

• Heart & Stroke Foundation

• Windsor/Essex CPR & First Aid Training 

These organizations offer trusted certification programs in First Aid, CPR, AED use, and more.

And of course, if you’re a student interested in practicing basic awareness skills in a fun and engaging way, you can attend one of our school sessions or invite Ready, Set, Respond to your classroom! Contact rsr.western@gmail.com to learn more.