Consider these tips for improving your practice:

• Know your landmarks. One of the most common mistakes is to confuse the hyoid bone with the thyroid cartilage resulting in an incision superior to the membrane, or even the cords. Have a feel of your own neck or a colleague's until you are confident you can identify the membrane
• Routinely palpate landmarks in predicted difficult airways. Ultrasound can help identify the cricothyroid membrane. This is best performed prior to induction and probably takes too long in an emergency. Consider marking the position of the cricothyroid membrane in cases where difficulty may be predicted. Remember that the position of the mark may change if you reposition the patient
• Teamworking is essential. You will find any procedure much easier to do if your assistant knows it also. Include them in your practice sessions
• Communication is key. Be accepting of a horizontal command/communication structure
• Keep calm. Although this is an emergency situation have the confidence that you have the skills required to deal with it
• Make sure you know where to find your equipment, and what to ask for