Dialing 000 for an Ambulance
When you call 000 for an ambulance in Wyndham, a specially designed and sophisticated computer aided dispatch system monitors the calls while trained and experienced Communications Officers (in the St John Ambulance Communication Centre in Perth) immediately assess the injury or illness of the patient, where they are located, and the degree of urgency for medical attention. All relevant information is transmitted to the nearest ambulance, and in a few moments crucial assistance is on its way.
You may be asked the following questions whilst an ambulance is being dispatched:
Location of the emergency (be as accurrate as possible)- Cross street or landmark (something local ambulance officers will know)
- Nature of emergency (what has actually happened)
- Number of people involved (in case more than one ambulance is needed)
- Is the patient conscious?
- Is the patient breathing?
- Call back phone number (mobile or home phone or even satellite phone)
Don't Hang Up
The Communications Officer will give you advice over the phone to assist the ambulance officers and patient prior to the arrival of the ambulance.
They may also ask you to perform some of the following tasks;
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Turn on front lights if it is dark (as it is not always easy to see the street numbering)
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If possible have someone wait out the front (to identify the house or location that little bit quicker)
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Make sure the door is unlocked and open so the ambuance officers can enter
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If you have any pets, move them away or restrain them (so the pets don't become too scared and bite the ambulance officers)
Please Remember:
- To try and stay calm and speak slowly and an ambulance will soon be on the way.
- The ambulance will be dispatched as soon as possible while the Communication Officer is working as quickly and professionally as they can to ensure prompt action.
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That if in doubt you should phone an ambulance.
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You do not need any money to phone 000.
If in doubt...
Sadly many people do not call an ambulance as they are unsure of whether the situation is an emergency or are afraid of the cost. If in doubt you should call 000. You may save someone's life.
