Lack of Oxygen
There is no universal safe time for which a person can “go without air.” When the brain no longer receives enough oxygen—for example, after circulation stops—injury can begin within minutes; the risk depends on the cause, residual blood flow, and treatment. Five minutes is not a safe threshold. If someone is unresponsive or not breathing normally, call local emergency services immediately and provide first aid within your training. [1–3]
Oxygen deprivation is an emergency; do not wait for a time threshold.
