Could you save a life with a phone call?
When a medical emergency strikes, knowing what to say when you call Triple Zero (000) could help get the right help to you faster.
The first question callers will be asked is: “Do you require Police, Fire or Ambulance?”
Once connected to a St John WA Communications Officer, callers will be asked a series of questions to help determine the most appropriate response.
These include:
- What is the address of the emergency? Callers should provide the street address, cross street or nearby landmark.
- What is the telephone number you are calling from? This allows the Communications Officer to call back if the connection is lost or more information is needed.
- What has happened? A brief description of the emergency is all that is needed initially.
- How old is the patient? An approximate age is fine if the exact age is unknown.
- Are they awake?
- Are they breathing?
The Communications Officer will then ask more detailed questions about the patient’s condition.
While these questions are being asked, an ambulance may already be on its way.
The Communications Officer can also provide instructions over the phone to help callers care for the patient while they wait for the ambulance to arrive.
Callers may be asked to turn on outside lights if it is dark, have someone wait outside for the ambulance if possible, and unlock the front door so the ambulance crew can get inside quickly.
Staying calm is important. Callers should try to speak slowly and clearly and answer each question as best they can.
And if you’re unsure whether a situation is serious enough to warrant an ambulance, don’t hesitate to call 000.
Some people delay calling because they’re unsure whether their situation is an emergency or are worried about the cost of an ambulance.
But when someone’s health or life may be at risk, it’s better to call and get advice than to wait and hope the situation improves.
A call could save a life.
It takes a special kind of person to respond to Triple Zero (000) calls.
Think you have what it takes?
