Skip main navigation

How people respond to emergencies?

Understanding how others may react in emergencies, will help you to keep safe when you are responding to a situation.
Woman in facemark looking at phone
© Public Health England
People are likely to show altruism in emergencies. While this is a great asset, it can also be a problem because people may expose themselves to danger while trying to help others.

In the context of the pandemic, it is important that those responding look after their own and others safety by following up to date guidance to reduce the risk of being infected.

People are more likely to panic if they feel trapped and helpless, if escaping seems to be the only way to survive or if there is no-one available to help. Even in these circumstances, panic is unlikely.

The majority of people who have been restricted in movement due to lockdown measures have cooperated in the knowledge that this is protecting themselves and others around them.

© Public Health England
This article is from the free online

COVID-19: Psychological First Aid

Created by
FutureLearn - Learning For Life

Reach your personal and professional goals

Unlock access to hundreds of expert online courses and degrees from top universities and educators to gain accredited qualifications and professional CV-building certificates.

Join over 18 million learners to launch, switch or build upon your career, all at your own pace, across a wide range of topic areas.

Start Learning now