For how long should you check for signs of life in an unresponsive person?

In a situation where you encounter an unresponsive person, it is crucial to check for signs of life thoroughly. The recommended duration for assessing responsiveness includes looking for breathing and pulse to ensure that no vital signs are overlooked. Checking for about 10 seconds allows you to accurately determine if the person is breathing and has a heartbeat. This length of time strikes a balance between being thorough enough to gather the necessary information about the person's condition while still being prompt enough to initiate necessary emergency response measures, such as calling for help or starting CPR if needed. This duration also aligns with guidelines set forth by organizations like the American Heart Association, ensuring that lifeguards and other responders can appropriately assess a situation in a timely yet comprehensive manner.