Government of Sint Maarten ** Ambulance Department **

When faced with an emergency, calling 911 can be a critical and life-saving action. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make an efficient emergency phone call, ensuring that help arrives swiftly:

Dial the Emergency Number: In most countries, dialing 911 for police/ambulance, 919 for fire department from your phone connects you to emergency services.

Stay Calm and Clear: When the operator answers, remain calm. Clearly state your location/telephone number first. Provide essential details such as the nature of the emergency (fire, medical, or police) and any critical information (trapped individuals, injuries, hazardous situations).

Location: Begin by sharing your precise location. If you’re unsure, look for landmarks, street signs, or nearby businesses.

Incident: Briefly describe what has happened. Be concise but thorough. For example:

“There’s a fire in my apartment building.”

“Someone is having a heart attack.”

“I witnessed a car accident.”

Other Services: The operator will guide you. If you need an ambulance, say so. If there’s a crime or threat, request police assistance. If it’s a fire, call the fire brigade : 919.

Number of People and Injuries: Provide information about the number of people involved and the extent of injuries. This helps emergency responders prepare adequately.

Stay on the Line: Even if you’ve provided all necessary information, stay connected. The operator might need additional details or instructions. Follow their guidance and DON’T ARGUE/CURSE the Police/Ambulance Dispatcher. Don’t hang up unless the dispatcher instructs otherwise.

Reassure and Assist: Reassure the injured person. Keep calm. Let them know help is on the way, and stay with them until it arrives. If you have been taught first aid, now’s the time to use it!

Remember the LIONEL system to organize your thoughts before you call 911/919:

Location: Tell them exactly where the emergency is and where they need to come.

Incident: Describe exactly what has happened.

Other services: Do you need the ambulance, police and/or fire service?

Number of people: How many are involved/need help?

Extent of injuries: How badly are they hurt?

Saying the person feels unwell/sick is vague… provide proper information on what exactly is happening.