You or a loved one may be hurt or seriously ill. Or you may be the first person at an accident scene. Do you know what to do? Speed is crucial in a medical emergency. Knowing how to respond quickly can help save lives.
Emergency medical services (EMS) is a team of emergency professionals. It includes paramedics, healthcare providers, nurses, police, and firefighters. In many places, dialing 911 connects you with EMS. If your community doesn't have a 911 system, find out what number to call in an emergency. Your children should also know how to summon help. Teach them to dial 911. And keep emergency numbers posted by the phone or somewhere they can easily be found. Have someone else call for help if you need to care for an injured person.
Not all illnesses or injuries need emergency care. This is not a complete list, but you should call EMS if the person:
Doesn't have a pulse
Is unconscious or semiconscious
Has trouble breathing
Has severe chest or stomach pain
Has severe burns or bleeding
Is vomiting blood or passing blood in stool or urine
Has moderate or severe head, neck, or back injuries
Has a broken bone
Is choking
Is drowning or had a near-drowning
Has a new seizure or prolonged seizure
Is in a major automobile accident or another form of trauma such as a stab or gunshot wound
When you call for help, remain calm. Speak slowly and clearly. Stay on the line until you're told to hang up. Be prepared to provide the following information:
Your name, address, and phone number, including the phone number you are calling from
The exact location of the person needing help
The number of people needing help
The nature of the problem
For more information call (269) 429-7100 or (800) 717-3811