When to Call
You should call 999 in the event that emergency medical assistance is required in a life-threatening situation following a serious accident, injury or illness. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Loss of consciousness
- Major blood loss
- Chest pains
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe burns/scalds
- Fitting/concussion
- Severe allergic reactions
- Choking
- Drowning
In the case that it is not a life-threatening emergency, and immediate medical attention is not required, please consider other options before calling 999:
- Care for yourself or the patient at home, or see if family or friends are able to help
- Talk to your local pharmacist
- Visit or call your GP (or, if necessary, call the out of hours GP service)
- Visit your local Minor Injuries Unit
- Make your own way to A&E (you will not be treated any quicker by arriving in an ambulance).
Visit our Choose Well page for more information.