Guidance

Know what is a an emergency and what is not.

Emergency services typically respond to situations that pose an immediate threat to life, property, or the environment.

While the exact definition of an emergency may vary slightly between jurisdictions, here are some common situations that are generally considered emergencies:

Medical emergencies

Any condition that requires immediate medical attention, such as heart attack, stroke, severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, unconsciousness, or major injuries.

Fires

Any fire, whether it’s a house fire, forest fire, or any other type of fire that poses a threat to life or property.

Criminal activity

Crimes in progress, such as burglaries, assaults, robberies, or any situation where there is an immediate threat to safety.

Hazardous materials

Spills or releases of hazardous materials that could endanger people or the environment, including chemical leaks, gas leaks, or unknown substances.

Traffic accidents

Serious vehicle accidents that involve injuries, entrapment, significant damage, or major traffic disruptions.

Natural disasters

Events like earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, landslides, or severe weather conditions that pose an immediate threat to safety or infrastructure.

Suicidal threats

When a person expresses an immediate intent to harm themselves or others, it is considered an emergency and requires immediate intervention.

Domestic violence

Instances of domestic violence or abuse that require immediate intervention to ensure the safety of the individuals involved.

It’s important to note that emergency services are equipped to handle a wide range of situations, and it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you’re uncertain whether a situation constitutes an emergency, it’s generally recommended to contact emergency services and let them assess the situation and provide guidance.