Giving clear information in an emergency — Civics, 4–6
When something is dangerous, clear information helps an adult or emergency helper know what to do.
Say what happened and where
In an emergency, helpers need short, true information. Say where you are, what has happened and whether someone is hurt or in danger. Stay with a trusted adult if one is nearby, listen carefully and answer questions. Clear words help people send the right help.
Why details help
In danger, helpers cannot see everything from far away. If they only hear “Something is wrong”, they do not know where to go or what equipment may be needed. A place, a problem and a number of people give them a useful picture. This saves time without making up extra details.
Reporting smoke at school
Tom sees smoke near the kitchen at school. First, he moves away and tells the nearest teacher. He says, “There is smoke beside the kitchen on the ground floor. I am in the hall, and I do not see anyone hurt.” The teacher calls for help and leads everyone away. Tom does not go back to look.
The guessing mistake
A reasonable mistake is to say the biggest, scariest story you can imagine, because you want help to come quickly. But guessing can send helpers to the wrong place or make them prepare for the wrong danger. Say what you actually saw or heard, then let trained adults decide what it means.
A skill for real situations
You may need this skill if someone falls in a playground, a fire alarm sounds or a person becomes suddenly ill. You can practise by learning your home address and noticing trusted adults in places you visit. In a real emergency, tell an adult first when possible and follow local instructions.
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