These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Don't move them if the neck or back might be hurt
If they fell from high up, were in a crash, or have neck or back pain, numbness or tingling, keep them still and call 911.
Keep their head and neck still by holding it gently in the position you found it.
Only move them if they are in danger, like fire or traffic.
911 (Grant County Regional Dispatch)
Emergency: police, fire, ambulance
911
Silver City · 24/7
2Head injury: call 911 if
They passed out, even for a moment, or are hard to wake up.
They are confused, have a very bad headache, throw up more than once, have a seizure, slurred speech, or one pupil bigger than the other.
Blood or clear fluid comes from the nose or ears.
They take blood thinners, or are an older adult who hit their head, even if they seem fine.
Someone who was hit in the head should not drink alcohol, and should have someone check on them for the next day.
3Possible broken bone
Signs: bad pain, swelling, bruising, a limb bent the wrong way, or can't put weight on it.
Keep it still the way you found it. Don't try to straighten it.
Put a cold pack wrapped in a cloth on it for 20 minutes.
Call 911 if bone shows through the skin, the limb is cold, blue or numb, or there is heavy bleeding.
Otherwise, get them to the ER or urgent care.
Gila Regional Medical Center
Emergency room
575-538-4000 · 24/7:
911
1313 E. 32nd St., Silver City · 24/7
4An older person who fell
You can ask"Are you hurt? Can you move your arms and legs?"
If they aren't hurt, help them roll to their side, get on hands and knees, and slowly get up using a sturdy chair.
If they can't get up or are hurt, keep them warm and comfortable and call 911.
If they seem confused or lost, use the guide "An older person seems confused, lost or wandering".
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.