When To Call EMS

Given our limited resources, it's important to know when to call 911. While we are always glad to respond no matter what the need, you must remember that we can't be everywhere all of the time.

• Is or becomes unconscious
• Has trouble breathing or is breathing in a strange manner
• Is bleeding uncontrollably
• Has chest pain, pressure or discomfort
• Has a persistent pain or pressure in the abdomen
• Is vomiting or passing blood
• Has injuries to their head, neck or back
• Has a seizure, severe headache or slurred speech
• Has broken bones

Sometimes, the individual may be embarrassed or scared and ask you to not call 911. While we understand their concern, it's more important that they receive care than to maintain their composure.

How to call for an ambulance

Chances are, you haven't called 911 before. But it's not difficult as long as you carefully listen to the operator. If possible, have someone call 9-1-1 while another person takes care of the patient.

Call 9-1-1. This number works on both land lines and cell phones anywhere in Oldham County. Though the dispatcher can isolate your location to a general area, try to have the address ready before you call.

Answer all the questions that the dispatcher asks. Their questions will include:

• Location or address of the emergency. If the location is not obvious, include any landmarks or intersections, the building name, the floor and the room or apartment number.
• The phone number from which the call is being made
• Your name
• An explanation of the event
• How many people are involved
• The condition of the victim(s)... i.e. unconsciousness, chest pains, or severe bleeding
• What treatment if being provided.
• Do not hang up the phone until instructed to do so. Often, the dispatcher may be able to tell you how to care for the patient until help arrives.

Do not hang up the phone until instructed to do so. Often, the dispatcher may be able to tell you how to care for the patient until help arrives

Learn what to do in an emergency

Even if we're responding to your emergency, you can begin treatment if you know how. While you might not have taken a format first aid class, chances are you were introduced to the basic skills by your parents or perhaps in Boy Scouts or Girl Scouts. It's often the little things that you do that can make a big difference.

We routinely offer American Heart Association sanctioned first aid classes at our Buckner station. The class will prepare you for virtually any medical situation you might find yourself in. For an upcoming class, refer to the Training Schedule or contact us via the web.