If your child is in immediate danger, call 911 now.
These guides help while you wait for help or for non-emergency situations.
Baby Emergency Guide
Content reviewed against published AAP, AHA, Red Cross guidelines
Last reviewed:
Key takeaways
- Stay calm — your baby needs you to think clearly
- Call 911 for any life-threatening emergency before starting first aid
- Learn infant CPR and choking response BEFORE you need it
- Keep Poison Control number saved: 1-800-222-1222
Emergency Categories
911 vs ER vs Urgent Care
Call 911 when:
Not breathing, choking and turning blue, seizure, head injury with loss of consciousness, severe allergic reaction, unresponsive
Go to ER when:
Broken bone, deep cut needing stitches, high fever in newborn, severe dehydration, ingestion of dangerous substance
Urgent care when:
Minor burns, small cuts, ear pain, mild allergic reaction, fever in older baby who looks well
Our commitment to accuracy
Every page is reviewed against published guidelines from authoritative medical organizations including the CDC, WHO, AAP, ACOG, ASHA, and NIH.
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