We like to think that if we call 911, help will arrive immediately. Unfortunately, “immediately” can sometimes be as long as 5 to 10 minutes, or longer, minutes that are critical in helping an injured person or saving a house on fire. Managing editor Tami Roleff explains what you can do in emergencies while you are waiting for help to arrive…
After you’ve told 911 dispatchers the nature of your emergency, stay on the line and remain calm. If you are on the phone with 911, you can provide updates on what is happening, which will be passed along to the emergency responders to prepare them for what to expect when they arrive. Additionally, if someone is injured, the dispatcher may tell you how you can help the victim. If you are at a fire—and if you can do so without endangering yourself—try to use a hose or a fire extinguisher to knock down the fire, or even shovel dirt on the flames. If you can’t safely help an injured victim or extinguish a fire, then don’t try. Wait for emergency responders to arrive. For more safety suggestions, visit www.fire.ca.gov.
WHAT TO DO AFTER YOU CALL 9-1-1
