Did you know that typically within 90 seconds of a call to 9-1-1, the closest ambulance to the scene is dispatched? Even while the dispatcher is simultaneously gathering more information from you.
How can you help them when they arrive?
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- Unlock the door if you can to prevent them from causing damage in order to make entry. Or tell the dispatcher where they can find a hidden key. (Apartment buildings may have a lock box to get into main entrance.)
- Put your pets away.
- Turn on porch lights and interior lights. It’s helpful to see signs of life inside.
- Make sure your house number is illuminated.
- Have a form on your fridge with critical medical information. (See earlier post about this.)
- If it’s a routine dispatch, expect an ambulance with two to three people. For a more serious incident, a second SUV or fire truck may also arrive. For really serious events, there may be three EMS unit, as well as a police car and/or fire truck.
- Don’t worry about embarrassment with the neighbors. Concentrate on getting you or your loved one the help they need within the timeframe they need it.
Wake County receives 280 calls per day. Emergency Medical Services has 43 ambulances operating during the middle of the day, but that goes down to around 30 overnight.