Ambulance – when to call one

Farmers, who often work alone, need to be as self-reliant in an emergency as possible. First aid skills are essential for all farm workers and people living on farms.  Knowing what to do in an emergency could save a life, and that life could also be your own.

It is important to know when to call for help. Your first reaction in an emergency may not always be the best course of action.

Even if you think it will take too long for help to arrive, always call triple zero (000) in an emergency as the operator may provide you with life-saving advice and obtain/take note of the details of your location.

If you are working outside of mobile phone range, always make sure there is someone who knows where you are going and what time you expect to return.

Emergencies – calling an ambulance

In a medical emergency call triple zero (000) from any phone within Australia – even if you don’t have any phone credit. Don’t hesitate to call if you’re not sure if the situation is an emergency. If in doubt, call 000 anyway. Calling an ambulance can be the difference between life and death.

Find out more about this topic on Better Health Channel

Fast facts:

  • If in doubt, always call triple zero (000).
  • Ambulance staff can give lifesaving advice over the phone; don’t hesitate to call in an emergency.
  • Give an accurate location so the ambulance gets there ASAP.
  • Don’t hang up until you are told to do so.

References used for this topic

More information:

Ambulance Victoria
Non-emergency information transport

Australian Communications and Media Authority
Emergency call services

Emergency services
Triple zero (000)

Emergency Services Telecommunications Authority
What happens when I call triple zero?

Victorian Poisons Information Centre (VPIC)
Calling the Victorian Poisons Information Centre   13 11 26 (Nationwide) 24 hours, 7 days a week