Page 13 - Participant Manual
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Understanding Your Role in the
EMS System
The emergency medical services (EMS) system is a network of professionals linked together to
provide the best care for people in all types of emergencies (Box 1-2). As a member of the community,
you play a major role in helping the EMS system to work effectively. Your role in the EMS system includes
four basic steps:
1. Recognizing that an emergency exists.
2. Deciding to take action.
3. Activating the EMS system.
4. Giving care until EMS personnel take over.
Recognizing that an Emergency Exists
Sometimes it will be obvious that an emergency exists—for example, a scream or cry for help, a noxious
or unusual odor, or the sight of someone bleeding severely or lying motionless on the ground are all clear
indications that immediate action is needed. But other times, the signs of an emergency may be more subtle,
such as a slight change in a person’s normal appearance or behavior, or an unusual silence. Your eyes, ears,
nose and even your gut instincts can alert you that an emergency situation exists (Box 1-3).
Deciding to Take
Action
Once you recognize an emergency
situation, you must decide to take
action. In an emergency, deciding
to act is not always as simple as it
sounds. Some people are slow to
act in an emergency because they
panic, are not exactly sure what
to do or think someone else will
take action. But in an emergency
© 2011, 2016 The American National Red Cross. All rights reserved.
situation, your decision to take
action could make the difference
between life and death for the
person who needs help.
Your decision to act in an emergency should be guided by your own values and by your knowledge of the
risks that may be present. However, even if you decide not to give care, you should at least call 9-1-1 or the
designated emergency number to get emergency medical help to the scene.
Chapter 1 Before Giving Care | 4 | First Aid/CPR/AED Participant’s Manual Chapter 1 Before Giving Care | 5 | First Aid/CPR/AED Participant’s Manual
