From car accidents to head injuries, Spartanburg Medical Center's (SMC) Level 1 Trauma Center is ready to care for you during your most critical time. But, our Emergency Center physicians don't want to meet you by accident.

While May marks Trauma Awareness Month, SMC's trauma team is dedicated to keeping you safe every day. With designated trauma bays, treatment areas and a helicopter to respond quickly, SMC's Level I Trauma Center is equipped to handle the most serious medical emergencies.

Below are some things you can do to stay safe and prepare for an emergency:

1. Make auto safety a priority: This includes having properly attached car seats for children, regularly maintaining your car and absolutely no cell phone use while driving.
2. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit in your home and car: Not every injury qualifies as a traumatic one, of course, but unchecked bleeding can make a moderate injury much worse. A well-stocked first aid kit will help you address anything from everyday cuts to more severe injuries.
3. Keep fire extinguishers in the house: There should be a fire extinguisher in or near the kitchen and the master bedroom. If you have a multi-story house, there should be one for each floor.
4. Review your emergency escape plan: Talk to your family about what to do in case of a fire or other emergencies and know what escape routes you can take out of your house.
5. Keep cell phone chargers in your car, house and office: In case of a serious injury, getting qualified first responders to the scene can be the difference between life and death. A properly-charged cell phone can be a lifeline.
6. Know where the closest trauma center is: Patients who suffer catastrophic injuries are typically brought to trauma centers by first responders. Locate a trauma center near you.

Learn more about Spartanburg Medical Center's Level I Trauma Center at SpartanburgRegional.com/Trauma.