Urgent advice: Get help from NHS 111 if:
- you're not sure if you need to call 999
NHS 111 can check your symptoms and tell you what to do.
Check your symptoms on 111 online, or call 111 to speak to someone if you need help for a child under 5.
What happens when you call 999
The call handler will ask you some questions.
They will want to know things like:
- the location of the emergency (for example, the postcode or any landmarks)
- what has happened (the main symptom or reason for the call)
- your contact number (in case they need to call you back)
They will tell you when they have all the information they need.
If you are told you will get a callback, make sure there is someone there to answer.
Calling 999 does not always mean an ambulance will be sent.
You might be told it's safe for you to make your own way to A&E, or to be seen elsewhere.
If it is a life-threatening emergency, paramedics or a community first responder will be sent to help.
They might arrive in:
- an emergency ambulance
- a rapid response vehicle or motorbike
- their own car
- a cycle response unit
- a combination of the above
The call handler will give you an idea of how long you will need to wait.
You might also be given instructions about what to do while you wait, including how to give basic first aid.
How you can help the ambulance crew
There are things you can do to help the paramedics:
- stay with the person until help arrives
- if you're in a dark house, turn on lights and open curtains
- if you're in a car, turn on the hazard lights
- call 999 again if the person's condition changes
- call 999 again if your location changes
- lock away family pets
- write down the person's GP details and collect any medicine they're taking, if you can
- tell the paramedics about any allergies the person has, if you know