Situation overview
Someone needs first aid
Emergency help comes first. Match the condition to relevant guidance below, not a required reading sequence.
First priorities
Check that the scene is safe before approaching. Do not put yourself in danger.
If someone is unresponsive, not breathing normally or only gasping, has trouble breathing, or has life-threatening bleeding, call local emergency services now (911 in the US). Follow the dispatcher's instructions; do not wait to read an article.
If unresponsive and not breathing normally, start CPR and use an AED as soon as available. Follow dispatcher guidance and the AED prompts.
For life-threatening bleeding, apply firm direct pressure if it is safe to do so while someone calls for help; follow dispatcher instructions.
Source: Red Cross first-aid stepsWhich condition needs guidance?
Official resource, after calling for emergency help
The person is unresponsive but breathing normally
After calling for emergency help, use condition-specific Red Cross guidance for an unresponsive, breathing person. If breathing is not normal or is only gasping, start CPR and use an AED instead; follow dispatcher guidance.
Red Cross: unresponsive and breathingOfficial resource, after calling for emergency help
There is life-threatening bleeding
Call for emergency help and apply firm direct pressure if it is safe to do so. Follow dispatcher instructions. This resource covers life-threatening external bleeding, not all injuries.
Red Cross: life-threatening external bleedingA minor wound or possible infection while care is delayed
Infection First Aid When Medical Care Is Delayed
Conservative cleaning and covering of minor cuts or scrapes while arranging medical care. First aid cannot cure an established infection. Seek urgent medical help for worsening or serious symptoms, including spreading redness, fever, confusion, or trouble breathing. This is not a treatment for all injuries.
A broad topic directory, not a curated emergency checklist. Some articles may not fit your situation.