In emergencies, flight attendants take the lead in aiding passengers. This may be as simple as providing reassurance during episodes of turbulence or as serious as administering first aid or evacuating passengers from the plane. Flight attendants must be prepared to provide direction and instruction for emergency landings and to assist passengers out of emergency exits and with emergency equipment. Should a medical emergency occur during flight, an attendant assesses the condition of the passenger, performs first aid if needed and, upon landing, informs the cockpit crew of the situation. The flight attendants also report any malfunctions encountered so they may be tended to after landing.