There is a WHEN and HOW to call 9-1-1. Do you know what activates when you call?
When you dial 9-1-1, you activate the EMS, or emergency medical services network. These responders have advanced and specialized training when you assess the need for first aid. The dispatcher who answers your call will walk you through instructions on what to do until first responders arrive. Once they arrive, they will take over the situation.
Dial 9-1-1 when you believe a person is injured or ill. Dial 9-1-1 when you are not sure what to do in an emergency.
Among many situations, if the injured or ill person:
-Does not respond when you touch them
-Does not respond when you talk to them
-Is not breathing properly or gasping
-Cannot move a part of their body
-Has a seizure
-Is bleeding severely
(There are many other examples!)
Remember, dialing 9-1-1 is not simply picking up the cell phone. What if you are in an office or warehouse with poor reception. Do you have to dial a number to get an outside line? Your job may have a team of trained first aid rescuers or responders who need to be contacted first. Figure this out on your respective jobs. Save the number in your cell phone, write it on your first aid box/kit.
If you are by yourself, shout for help. If you get no response, dial 9-1-1 and put the phone on speaker and follow the dispatcher's directions. They may walk you through first aid tips, CPR and AED use.
If you are with others, standby with the ill or injured person in case you must give first aid or CPR. Get another person to dial 9-1-1 and to retrieve the first aid kit and AED. Keep the phone on speaker and listen to the dispatcher until advanced medical help arrives.
CPR Ready GA offers individual, corporate, church training in CPR, First Aid, AED, BLS, and Active Shooter Curriculum. We can provide consultation and sales in emergency medical equipment.
For classes and general information visit www.cprready.net or contact (770) 765-0023