Ambulance Week is the perfect time to make sure you are equipped with the knowledge which could help save a life in the event of a medical emergency.
There are more than 3,190 operational ambulance staff around Queensland dedicated to saving the lives of the sick and injured, but they need the cooperation of the public, especially during the times where seconds count.
QAS Brisbane Region Assistant Commissioner Gavin Trembath said calling Triple Zero (000) gave members of the public access to immediate emergency support in serious, critical and life threatening situations.
“Each year people risk their lives by failing to call Triple Zero (000) when they come across the scene of an emergency, by driving themselves to the nearest hospital or ambulance station or even ignoring the signs of a potential heart attack,” he said.
“Calling Triple Zero (000) can mean the difference between life and death and I encourage all families to sit down and discuss what to do in the event of an emergency.
“When you call Triple Zero (000) and request an ambulance, an Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) is available on the line to provide advice and dispatch the most appropriate medical help to your location.
“Current computer technology means that, in most cases, the ambulance will already be on its way while the operator is still talking to you.
“It is important to remain calm, be aware of your surroundings and provide as much information as possible to the EMD on the other end of the line and don’t hang up until asked to by the operator.”
Questions you will be asked include:
· What is your address/location?
· What is your phone number?
· What is the nature of the emergency?
· How many people are in need of help?
· What is their age?
· Are they conscious and breathing?
· Are they male or female?
Mr Trembath also suggested people take the time to enrol in a CPR and First Aid course so they could potentially save the life of a loved one or even a stranger on the street.
“QAS is instrumental in providing courses in introductory first aid right through to advanced resuscitation,” he said.
Ambulance Week celebrations (12-16 September) are held annually on the anniversary of the first civil ambulance service in Queensland. It provides an opportunity to reflect on the outstanding work of Queensland’s dedicated ambulance officers and volunteers and encourages the community to be better prepared for an emergency situation.
For further information visit www.ambulance.qld.gov.au or for the online interactive Triple Zero Kid’s Challenge at http://kids.triplezero.gov.au/
