DRSABCD
- Danger — check for danger to yourself, bystanders and the casualty (traffic, electricity, fire, gas). Do not become a second casualty.
- Response — speak loudly and gently tap the shoulders: "Can you hear me?"
- Send for help — call 1122 or 115, or ask a bystander to call and to bring an AED (defibrillator) if one is available.
- Airway — gently tilt the head back and lift the chin.
- Breathing — look, listen and feel for normal breathing for no more than 10 seconds. Occasional gasps are not normal breathing.
- CPR — if they are not breathing normally, start chest compressions: hands in the centre of the chest, push hard and fast (about 5–6 cm deep, 100–120 a minute). If trained, give 2 rescue breaths after every 30 compressions; otherwise keep doing compressions only.
- Defibrillation — switch on the AED as soon as it arrives and follow its spoken instructions.
If the person is breathing normally but unresponsive, place them in the recovery position and keep checking their breathing until help arrives.
General guidance for awareness only. It does not replace hands-on training, your organisation's procedures or advice from emergency services. In an emergency in Pakistan call 1122 (Rescue), 16 (Fire brigade) or 115 (Edhi ambulance).
Source: PHSO · Last updated 11 Oct 2026
