The latest from MASA

A little preparation can make all the difference when an emergency happens. Learn how to get familiar with your MASA membership, prepare before leaving home, know what to do in an emergency, and understand what to expect when it’s time to use your plan.

Emergencies require quick action, but many people hesitate to step in because they’re worried about doing the wrong thing or even facing legal consequences. Fortunately, by understanding a few basic principles, you can make a meaningful difference while waiting for professional responders to arrive.

Heat illness can escalate quickly, but knowing what to watch for can make all the difference. EMS professionals share how 911 responds to heat emergencies and the simple steps everyone can take to stay safe during the hottest months of the year.

Living alone doesn't mean facing emergencies alone. A few practical preparations — from daily check-ins and emergency contacts to back-up plans for your home, pets, and healthcare needs — can help you stay safe, protect your independence, and gain valuable peace of mind.

EMS professionals emphasize that clear communication, early 911 calls, and accurate information can significantly improve emergency response times and patient outcomes. From dispatch guidance to on-scene cooperation, what callers and bystanders do in the first moments of a crisis can directly shape survival and recovery.

Practicing brief emergency drills at home helps families of all ages respond more confidently and effectively during real crises. These simple exercises clarify roles, improve communication, and strengthen preparedness before emergencies happen.

Time away from home — whether for business or leisure — can be exciting. Planning for medical issues that may arise when you're away from home is a smart step to incorporate into your pre-departure preparations. With the right knowledge and tools, you can confidently navigate care anywhere in the world.

For many people, dialing 911 brings to mind heart attacks, injuries, or accidents. But a growing share of emergency calls involve something less visible and often more complex: mental health crises.

In this interview, we speak with veteran paramedics Will Winters, Jaran Floyd, and Ken Euler — each bringing over two decades of service in EMS. Drawing from their firsthand perspectives, they share what mental health emergencies look like in the field, how responders approach these complex situations, and what unfolds in those critical moments.