When an unexpected incident occurs—such as collapse, choking, burns, or injury—the first reaction of those nearby is often emotion, not skill.

Panic, shouting, acting on instinct, or following unverified “folk remedies” can cause a situation to worsen within minutes.
In contrast, a calm and appropriate response can reduce injury and help keep the victim safe until medical assistance arrives.

In emergencies, staying calm is not a natural reflex—it is a skill that can be learned.

Panic – a Human Reaction, but One That Carries Risk

During family emergencies, especially during Tết, panic often leads to:

• Doing many things at once, but none of them correctly
• Over-intervention or improper handling
• Delaying emergency calls because “it may not be serious”
• Following advice without scientific or medical basis

Panic does not make victims safer—it often wastes critical response time.

Proper Response – No Medical Degree Required, but Knowledge Is Essential

Responding properly does not require you to be a healthcare professional.
What truly matters is:

• Correctly recognizing the level of urgency
• Knowing what to do immediately and what must never be done
• Staying calm to protect both the victim and yourself

Common Situations & Proper Responses

When a Family Member Is Choking

Panic often leads to:

• Finger-sweeping the throat when the object is not visible
• Giving water
• Performing emergency techniques incorrectly

Proper response:

• If the person can cough or speak → encourage strong coughing
• Do not insert fingers into the throat if the object is not visible
• If the person cannot breathe → call for help and perform back blows and abdominal thrusts if properly trained

When Burns Occur During Cooking

Panic often leads to:

• Applying toothpaste, oil, or grease
• Breaking blisters
• Delaying cooling while searching for “treatments”

Proper response:

• Stop contact with the heat source immediately
• Cool the burned area under clean running water for 15–20 minutes, or until the burning sensation decreases or subsides.
• Cover lightly with a clean dressing and monitor

When a Family Member Suddenly Feels Dizzy or Collapses

Panic often leads to:

• Immediately trying to lift the person
• Shaking or calling loudly
• Giving food or drink before assessing the condition

Proper response:

• Ensure the surrounding area is safe
• Check consciousness and breathing
• If unconscious but breathing → place in the recovery position
• If not breathing → call emergency services and begin CPR if trained
• Call 115 for guidance and emergency assistance

Quick Checklist – Stay Calm to Respond Correctly

What to Do

• Pause briefly to assess the situation
• Ensure safety for yourself and the victim
• Call emergency services early if danger signs are present
• Provide basic first aid within the scope of your training

Common Mistakes

• Panicking and acting on instinct
• Applying unverified “folk remedies”
• Delaying medical assistance
• Intervening beyond one’s knowledge or training

Preparation Reduces Panic

Panic often comes from lack of preparation. Families can be more proactive by:

• Ensuring at least one family member has basic first aid knowledge
• Agreeing in advance who will call emergency services and who will assist
• Saving emergency contact numbers and locations of nearby medical facilities
• Remembering that simple, correct actions are better than doing many things incorrectly

Proper first aid in the first few minutes can reduce risks, protect loved ones, and support subsequent medical treatment.

Prepare early – Respond correctly – Stay safer in every emergency.