Calling 999

Have you ever needed an ambulance?

Did you know what to do?

These are all things that sound pretty simple, but in a crisis its the kind of information that zooms out the window with all your rationality.

However, we have compiled a simple checklist of things to do when you need an ambulance. So if you ever need an ambulance, follow these golden rules.

1. Before you phone, write down the location and telephone number you are using.
2. The first person you will speak to will be the operator who will ask; "Which Service Do You Require?"
   • Ambulance
   • Police
   • Fire
   • Coastguard
   or all of these.
3. When answering, try to remain calm and speak slowly & clearly, even though you may be frightened or worried. Many names and addresses sound the same, so the slower you speak the less chance there will be of a mistake.
4. You will be asked to give the details you wrote down earlier (location and telephone number). This is in case you are cut off and we need to contact you
5. You may be asked the nature of the incident, i.e. A road accident etc.
6. How many casualties are involved?
7. What kind of injuries are there? i.e. Are they breathing, bleeding, choking etc.
8. Don't Hang up until your told to do so by the ambulance controller.
9. Even if you think you have given all the information there may be something very important that you have forgotten.
10. If somebody is seriously injured or very ill, the ambulance controller will offer to assist you to give first aid until the ambulance arrives.

Remember! DON'T PANIC