Medical Emergency

A medical emergency is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that requires immediate care. Getting medical attention right away for someone who is having a medical emergency can save their life.

Indications of a medical emergency

If you experience or observe any of the following indications in another person, immediate medical intervention may be required. If it is safe to do so, call 911.

• bleeding that won't stop
• respiratory problems or laboured breathing
• sudden changes in mental status or capacity
• chest pain
• unconsciousness
• fainting
• injuries to the head or spine
• ingesting poisonous substance
• any other severe injury

What to do

• Stay calm and call 911 if it is safe to do so.
• Be prepared to provide the following information:
  • a description of what is happening
  • your location
  • your name, address and telephone number
• Remain on the line to provide additional information if requested to do so by the call taker.
• Do not hang up until the call taker tells you to do so or emergency services arrives on scene.

If you are a bystander, you can also:

• Provide first aid if you have training to do so until the arrival of emergency services.
• If possible, stay with the injured or ill person until emergency services arrive.

Reporting after the fact

If an incident, accident or injury has occurred, no matter the severity, it must be reported. Please contact a member of our team to let us know. 

Non-emergency medical situations

Learn about non-emergency medical situations and steps to take.