Traditional TET is a time for family gatherings, rest, and celebration. However, it is also a period when family emergencies are more likely to occur—as daily routines change, eating and drinking increase, travel becomes more frequent, and caution tends to decrease.
- A choking incident during a Tết family meal
- A burn injury while cooking
- A family member suddenly feeling dizzy, short of breath, or collapsing
These situations do not wait until the holidays are over to happen.
Common Family Emergencies During Tết
- Choking due to eating quickly or alcohol consumption
- Burns from boiling water, hot oil, or open flames
- Falls during house cleaning or crowded family activities
- Stroke symptoms, chest pain, or breathing difficulties, especially in older adults
- Minor household accidents when medical support is not immediately available
The common factor in all these situations is that the first person on the scene is usually a family member—not a healthcare professional.
In Family Emergencies, the First Few Minutes Matter More Than You Think
In many emergency situations:
- Proper first aid can reduce injury and prevent the condition from worsening
- Incorrect or delayed actions can lead to more serious consequences before medical help arrives
First aid knowledge does not replace doctors, but it can:
- Keep the victim safe
- Buy valuable time
- Help families remain calm and respond appropriately
Essential First Aid Skills for Family Emergencies During Tết
- When Someone Is Choking
- If the person can cough or speak → encourage strong coughing
- Do not insert fingers into the throat if the object is not visible
- Do not give water while choking
- If the person cannot breathe or speak:
- Call for help immediately
- Perform back blows and abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) if properly trained
- When a Burn Occurs During Cooking
- Stop contact with the heat source immediately
- Cool the burned area under clean running water for 15–20 minutes
- Cover lightly with a clean dressing
- Do not apply toothpaste, oil, or grease
- Do not break blisters
- When a Family Member Suddenly Feels Dizzy or Collapses
- Ensure the surrounding area is safe
- Check consciousness and breathing
- If unconscious but breathing → place in the recovery position
- If not breathing or no pulse → call emergency services and begin CPR if trained
Every minute of delay can significantly reduce the chance of survival.
- When There Is an Injury with Bleeding
- Apply direct pressure to control bleeding
- Keep the victim still and calm
- Do not move the person if a serious injury is suspected
How Families Can Prepare Before Tết?
Preparing in advance does not make Tết less enjoyable—it helps make it safer.
Family emergencies can happen at any time, even during holidays. Loved ones are the true first responders in those critical moments.
- Ensure at least one family member has basic first aid knowledge
- Know when to act immediately and when to call emergency services
- Save emergency contact numbers and plan routes to nearby medical facilities
- Avoid using unverified “folk remedies” without scientific or medical basis
Holidays are only truly meaningful when we are prepared to respond to emergencies. Being proactive with first aid knowledge helps protect our loved ones when it matters most.