How to save a life – seven steps to learn

At London Ambulance Service we use a simple way to remember the steps to save a life: DRSABCD – when we say it out loud it sounds like Doctor’s ABCD!  

D – Danger  

Check for danger to yourself, the patient and others before approaching 

R – Response 

Check for a response by talking to the person and gently shaking their shoulders 

S – Send for help 

Call 999 immediately and provide your location 

A – Airway  

Open the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin 

B – Breathing  

Check for normal breathing for up to 10 seconds 

C – CPR  

• Put your hands on the centre of the chest, one hand on top of the other 

• Arms straight and press down 5-6 cm deep  

• Let the chest recoil before pressing down again 

• Keep going at a rate of 100-120 per minute 

D – Defibrillation  

Send someone to get the nearest defibrillator and follow the device’s spoken instructions.