When an emergency happens, the first few minutes can feel overwhelming. Knowing what to do while help is on the way can make the situation safer for everyone involved.
At Riverside Ambulance, our crews are here to serve our communities when they need emergency medical care. Here are a few simple things you can do after calling 911 to help responders reach you and begin care as quickly as possible.
Give the Dispatcher Clear Information
Tell the dispatcher where you are, what happened, and what you know about the patient’s condition. Stay on the line and answer the dispatcher’s questions as clearly as you can. Those questions help emergency responders prepare while they are on the way.
Make Your Location Easy to Find
If it is safe to do so, turn on outside lights, unlock the door, secure pets, and have someone watch for the ambulance. In rural areas, clearly visible house numbers and mailbox numbers are especially helpful.
Gather Important Information
If you have time, gather the patient’s medication list, allergies, medical history, identification, and any relevant medical documents. Having that information ready can help the EMS crew quickly understand the patient’s needs.
Give Responders Room to Work
When the crew arrives, give them enough space to safely assess and treat the patient. One family member who can answer questions is often very helpful, but a crowded room can make patient care more difficult.
Do Not Put Yourself in Danger
Some emergencies involve traffic, fire, electricity, violence, hazardous materials, or other risks. Do not enter an unsafe area or place yourself in danger while trying to help. Follow instructions from the 911 dispatcher and responding emergency personnel.
We Are Here When You Need Us
Emergencies are stressful, and nobody expects you to have everything figured out before help arrives. Call 911, provide the information you can, follow the dispatcher’s instructions, and let the responding crews take it from there.
Riverside Ambulance is proud to serve our local communities with neighbors caring for neighbors.
