Contacting EMS
Usually EMS is activated by a phone call to a universal emergency number such as 911. At such time a specialized emergency communications operator will gather information and dispatch highly trained EMS responders in emergency vehicles to the scene.
Outside of a hospital, the Emergency Medical Services system, or EMS, plays a critical role in caring for medical emergencies. If you suspect a medical emergency exists, activate EMS as soon as possible, even if the situation is unclear and you are in doubt as to what may have occurred.
When you call, an emergency operator will ask for basic information about the emergency and your address. Even if you are unable to talk, as in the case that you might be the chocking victim, EMS will automatically have your location and will respond to your call. This does not apply if you are calling from a cell phone.
At the same time as your call, a separate person, or emergency dispatcher will likely be alerting the appropriate resources to respond. Remain in contact with the emergency operator until EMS providers arrive or you are instructed to hand up. In many EMS systems, emergency operators are trained to help guide your care. If possible have another person call so you can provide emergency care such as CPR, First Aid or rescue breathing.
If you are alone with an unresponsive child or infant, it is important to provide 2 minutes of emergency care such as rescue breathing, before making the call yourself to EMS. If alone with an unresponsive adult, activate EMS immediately before providing additional care. This is due to the fact that most child or infant emergencies involve chocking and require immediate live saving rescue breaths where as adult emergencies usually involve heart related issues and require time sensitive help from EMS responders with an AED and the appropriate drugs for resuscitation.
Activating Emergency Medical Services in a timely manner can mean the difference between life and death. Be sure to review these and other basic CPR training and First Aid training materials from time to time to enable you to provide the best emergency care when it becomes necessary. For more information on Emergency Care, CPR Training, First Aid Training, and AED information see www.CardiacareCPR.com