Seven pocket cards for the moments when there is no time to search: CPR, choking, stroke signs, a grease fire, the jump-start clamp order, a gas smell and your water shutoff. Print on card stock, cut along the dashed lines and keep one in your wallet, the glove box and the kitchen drawer. The cards remind; they do not replace a certified first aid class.
Print
Hands-only CPR
Tap and shout. Only gasping or not breathing: start.
Call 911 on speaker. Send someone for an AED.
Heel of hand mid-chest, other hand on top, elbows locked.
Push at least 2 inches, 100 to 120 a minute.
Let the chest rise fully. Do not stop until help takes over.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: How to do hands-only CPR. Emergency: 911 in the US.
Choking adult
Can they cough or talk? Let them cough and stay close.
Cannot speak or breathe: have someone call 911.
Lean them forward. 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades.
Fist above the belly button. 5 quick inward and upward thrusts.
Repeat until it comes out. If they collapse, start CPR.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: What to do if someone is choking. Emergency: 911 in the US.
Stroke signs: FAST
Face: ask them to smile. Does one side droop?
Arms: raise both. Does one drift down?
Speech: repeat a phrase. Slurred or strange?
Time: call 911 at once, even if signs pass.
Note when it started. No food, drink or medicine.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: Signs of a stroke (FAST). Emergency: 911 in the US.
Grease fire
Burner off, from the front of the stove.
Slide a metal lid or sheet pan on from the side.
Leave it covered and in place until cool.
Never water. Never carry the pan.
Spreading fire: everyone out, close the door, call 911.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: How to put out a grease fire. Emergency: 911 in the US.
Jump-start order
Both cars off. Cracked or leaking battery: stop.
1. Red on the flat battery's positive.
2. Red on the helper battery's positive.
3. Black on the helper battery's negative.
4. Black on bare metal of the stalled car's engine. Off in reverse.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: How to jump start a car. Emergency: 911 in the US.
Gas smell
Rotten egg smell: everyone out now, pets too.
Touch no switches, lights or appliances.
No phone, lighter or car inside or in the garage.
From well away: call 911 or the gas emergency line.
Stay out until responders say it is safe.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: What to do if you smell gas. Emergency: 911 in the US.
Water shutoff
My main shutoff is: ________________
Round wheel: turn clockwise to close.
Lever: quarter turn, across the pipe is closed.
Burst pipe: close it first, then call a plumber.
Test it twice a year.
EveryManKnows. Full guide: Where is my main water shutoff. Emergency: 911 in the US.