Updated June 09, 2015.
Q. If you have to give an infant CPR, is it best to call 911 first or start CPR immediately and call 911 later? Gilbert, AZ
A. If you know CPR and you are alone, you are supposed to start CPR and then call 911 after about one cycle of compressions/breaths or after one minute of CPR. This applies whether your child is choking or is simply unconscious.

If you are not alone another adult is nearby, you can probably call for or send them to call 911 right away while you are starting CPR.

And if you don't know CPR at all, call 911 right away for help.

For adults, you are supposed to call 911 right away in any case.

Since the average response time for an ambulance can be up to 10 to 12 minutes, parents should be prepared and know what to do in an emergency, including knowing CPR.

Also remember that if you are alone and call 911, bring the baby with you to the phone.

Books and Videos about Infant and Child CPR:

• Infant and Child CPR - a textbook that teaches CPR from the National Safety Council
  
  
• Baby and Child CPR Video - learn CPR at home if you can't take a class!
  
  

For more information:

• CPR
  
  
• First Aid
  
  
• First Aid for Common Emergencies
  
  
• Caring for Kids in an Emergency
  
  
• First Aid Quiz