If someone you love collapses tonight, the emergency will not wait while your family searches for a phone number or argues about which hospital to use.

Make the plan now.

In Nigeria, save 112 as the national emergency number. Also save the direct number of a reliable local ambulance service or nearby hospital because response arrangements may differ by location.

Choose the hospital your family would use for a suspected heart attack or stroke. Know how you would get there if an ambulance is delayed.

Keep an updated medication list where another family member can find it. Write down any allergies and important medical conditions.

If someone becomes unresponsive and is not breathing normally, call for help and begin chest compressions. Push hard and fast in the centre of the chest.

If an automated external defibrillator, usually shortened to AED, is available, turn it on and follow its instructions. An AED is a portable device that checks the person’s heart rhythm. It will tell you whether an electric shock is needed and guide you through what to do next. You do not have to make that decision yourself.

If the person suddenly develops a drooping face, weakness in one arm or a change in speech, suspect a stroke. Note the time the symptoms began and get urgent medical help. Do not wait for the symptoms to disappear.

Do not give food, water or herbal mixtures. Do not give aspirin unless an emergency professional specifically advises it. A collapse may have several causes, and some strokes are caused by bleeding.

Before today ends, complete the emergency card on this poster. Let everyone in your household know where the information is kept.

The best time to make an emergency plan is before your family needs it.