In the aftermath of a disaster, every second counts. Your ability to stay focused and act decisively can make the difference between life and death.
This assessment can be done in about 60 seconds. If something is wrong, take the time to address it now to prevent it from becoming a bigger problem later.
Some things can be addressed simultaneously.
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This is a modified rapid assessment/scene size up based loosely on training for first responders. During a disaster, the priority is yourself, your safety and the safety of those around you.. In that order.
Assess yourself
Take a breath.
Did it work?
No: Try again
Yes: Good. You’re alive, now let’s keep it that way.
Are you bleeding?
Yes:
A lot: Use gauze (something clean). Add more on top if necessary. If the bleeding still won’t stop, apply a tourniquet and find medical services.
A little: Cover it up. Keep debris and flood water out of it the best you can. Clean it as soon as possible.
No: Perfect
Can you walk?
Yes: Find a safe place.
No: Get help: call, text, yell, make noise and listen for a response.
Does anything move that shouldn’t?
Yes: Splint it to prevent it from moving.
No: Good
Does something not move that should?
Yes: Stabilize it to prevent further injury.
No. Good
Assess Your Environment.
Take another breath.
What do you smell? Gas, chemicals, or smoke?
What do you see? Flames, rising flood waters, arcing electrical lines, wild animals, broken glass? Is the ground in front of you solid?
What do you hear? Gas hissing, water rushing, or does the building sound like it is about to collapse?
If so…
Find a safer location.
Prepare yourself for your environment.
Grab your shoes.
Do you need a jacket/rain coat?
Do you need a fire extinguisher or tools to help you escape (like an ax)?
Assist Your family & friends
Are they breathing?
Yes: Good
No: Tilt their head back slightly to open their airway. If it doesn’t work, and additional help is not available, you may need to move on and focus on helping yourself/others.
Are they bleeding?
Yes?
A lot: Use gauze, more gauze, and apply a tourniquet if needed. Get them to a medical facility.
A little: Cover and keep it clean.
No: Perfect
Can they walk?
Yes: Find a safe place.
No: Do they need to?
No: Keep them and the environment safe until help arrives.
Yes: Assist them. If you’re by yourself, use a blanket/tarp to drag them, with others use a stretcher/chair/door/table to carry them.
Does anything move that shouldn’t? (Does anything that shouldn’t move, move?)
Yes: Splint it to prevent it from moving.
No: Good
Does something not move that should? (Does everything move that should)
Yes: Stabilize it to prevent further injury.
No. Good
During a disaster you need to make every second count. You do this by ensuring safety for Yourself, your environment, your family/friends.
We highly recommend learning basic first aid, CPR, and how to apply a tourniquet.
For more disaster response resources check out our Disaster Assistance Response Team page.
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