What to Do in a Medical Emergency

Stay calm and assess the situation

Before dialling the ambulance number, take two seconds to assess: Is the scene safe? How many people are injured? Is the person conscious and breathing?

Call the ambulance immediately

Dial your country's ambulance / medical emergency number as soon as possible. In many countries this is 112 (Europe), 911 (USA & Canada), 999 (UK), 000 (Australia) or 119 (Japan). Check the country directory for the correct number wherever you are.

What to tell the operator

1. Your exact location – street address, landmark, GPS coordinates if possible.
2. What happened – "Person unconscious", "suspected heart attack", "breathing difficulties".
3. How many people are affected
4. Your callback number – the operator may need to call you back.

Do not hang up until the operator tells you to. They can guide you through first aid steps while help is on the way.

While waiting for the ambulance

• If the person is not breathing and you are trained in CPR, begin chest compressions.
• If there is heavy bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth.
• Keep the person warm and still. Do not give food or water.
• Send someone to the entrance of the building or road to flag down the ambulance.

International travellers

If you are abroad, always check the local ambulance number before you travel. The pan-European emergency number 112 works in all EU member states and many other countries even if you do not have a SIM card. For a full list see our country directory.

Frequently asked questions

Can I call an ambulance from a phone with no credit?

Yes. Emergency calls are free from any mobile or landline, even prepaid phones with zero balance.

What if I cannot speak the local language?

State "English" (or your language) clearly at the start of the call. Many emergency centres have interpreter services. Give your location first – that is the most critical piece of information.