Don’t ignore emergencies

RELUCTANCE by some people to acknowledge their need for emergency assistance has prompted Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS) to reinforce the importance of calling triple-zero.
Darling Downs Local Ambulance Service Network general manager and acting assistant commissioner John Hammond said there were some signs which should not be ignored when deciding whether or not to call an ambulance.
“We see a lot of people who wait too long to call triple-zero because they think their situation isn’t serious enough,” he said.
“A lot of people mistakenly blame chest pains on things like indigestion, when they could be suffering a serious heart attack.
“Other situations like breathing difficulties, uncontrolled bleeding and lapses in consciousness should be treated equally as seriously, and an ambulance should be called immediately.”
When you call triple-zero, you will be put through to a Telstra operator who will ask if you require ambulance, police or fire. You will then be connected to an emergency medical dispatcher.
Mr Hammond also encouraged residents to get to know their neighbours, particularly those from non-English speaking backgrounds.
“The Darling Downs attracts a lot of international workers who speak English as a second language,” he said.
“As emergency numbers differ across the world, stressing the importance of calling triple-zero (000) in an emergency to new residents, as well as visitors, to Australia is very important.
“Approach neighbours who are new to the area and talk to them about what to do in the event of an emergency – you never know, your own advice may save your life.”