Emergencies and Life-Threatening Conditions
In a medical emergency where someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk, call 999 immediately or attend your nearest Emergency Department (A&E).
When to Call 999 or Go to A&E
You should seek immediate help for any of the following:
- Chest Pain: Suspected heart attack.
- Signs of Stroke: Facial drooping, arm weakness, or slurred speech.
- Breathing Issues: Difficulty breathing, stopped breathing, or a change in skin color.
- Severe Allergic Reaction: Anaphylactic shock.
- Unconsciousness: Fluctuating levels of consciousness or completely unresponsive.
- Severe Bleeding: Heavy bleeding or deep lacerations that won’t stop.
- Seizures: A new fit or uncontrollable shaking.
- Severe Pain: Sudden, intense abdominal pain.
- Poisoning: Accidental or intentional overdose of medication.
- Major Trauma: Serious falls, possible broken bones, or road traffic accidents.
For Infants and Children:
- A high fever where the child is lethargic (drowsy) or floppy (unresponsive).
- Suspected meningitis (rash that doesn’t fade under a glass, stiff neck, or light sensitivity).
What Happens When You Call 999?
If you are in a genuine emergency, stay calm and dial 999. A call handler will ask you several vital questions to ensure you get the right help:
- Location: Where are you? (Provide a postcode or landmark if possible).
- Contact: What phone number are you calling from?
- Situation: What has happened and is the patient conscious/breathing?
Important: Calling 999 does not always mean an ambulance will be sent. The operator is trained to decide the safest and quickest course of action. You may be given medical advice over the phone or directed to a more appropriate service if an ambulance is not required.