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When to call 999

You should always call 999 if someone is seriously injured or their life is at risk

Some examples of medical emergencies include:

  • chest pain;
  • breathing difficulty;
  • unconsciousness;
  • severe loss of blood;
  • severe burns or scalds;
  • fitting or concussion;
  • drowning;
  • severe allergic reactions;
  • choking;
  • a child with sudden unexpected symptoms.

If it is not a life threatening of serious emergency you should consider other options before dialling 999.
These could include:

  • NHS 24 – Tel 08454 24 24 24
  • Your local GP

I called 999 for a gentleman who seemed very ill last week, never having done this I can only comment that the operator was very calm and re-assuring. While she sought information she made clear that the ambulance was on the way.