When to Call Triple Zero (000)

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When to Call Triple Zero (000)

Always call Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.

It could save a life.

If someone is seriously injured or needs urgent medical help, call Triple Zero (000) and ask for an ambulance.

You should call Triple Zero (000) if someone experiences:

chest pain or tightness
difficulty breathing
sudden collapse or an unexplained fall
fits or seizures
uncontrollable bleeding
serious burns
unconsciousness
a fall from a height
injury from a car accident
serious assault
fits, allergic reactions or ongoing fever (in infants)

If you are providing first aid to someone in a medical emergency:

Ask someone else to make the call to Triple Zero (000) if possible.
Call out for help if you are by yourself.
If no one else is available to help, briefly leave the patient to make the call to Triple Zero (000).

For non-urgent or less serious conditions, you could visit a GP, pharmacist or call HealthDirect Australia on 1800 022 222 or visit www.healthdirect.gov.au.

What happens when I call Triple Zero (000)?

When you call Triple Zero (000), an operator will ask if you need police, fire or ambulance.

When you ask for an ambulance, your call will be transferred to SA Ambulance Service.

You will be asked for the exact address or location details and your contact phone number.

Try to provide the full address including the street name and number, and suburb or town.

You will then be asked to provide some details about the patient, the situation and their current condition.

The Triple Zero (000) call taker may give you step-by-step first-aid instructions to help the patient.

Stay on the line until the Triple Zero (000) call taker tells you to disconnect. They may ask you to remain on the call until the ambulance arrives.

If your call is assessed as not requiring an emergency ambulance response, you may be clinically assessed by a paramedic via phone or video call.
Helpful tips when calling Triple Zero (000)

Stay calm and focussed.

Speak clearly and slowly.

Provide the exact address or approximate location details such as close landmarks and or main roads nearby.

Answer all questions.

Always stay on the line until the Triple Zero (000) call-taker has all the information they need, and they tell you to hang up.
Tips to prepare for the arrival of an ambulance
Ensure the house or building number can be seen by the ambulance. If it is night, turn on outdoor lights.

If possible, have someone outside to meet the ambulance on arrival and direct them to the patient.

Unlock any doors or gates to ensure the ambulance and crew can access the property.

Provide a clear and safe path to the patient if possible.

Lock away any pets or animals.

If the ambulance needs to take you (or the patient) to hospital:
- Bring a small bag of essential belongings, including any regular medication.
- Avoid carrying valuables with you in the ambulance.
- Remember to bring your keys and ensure the property is secured if possible.
How much will an ambulance cost?

Ambulance transport and emergency response in South Australia is not free or covered by Medicare.

The costs of ambulance attendance vary according to the incident response and the circumstances of the person requiring care.

Current charges are listed at SA Ambulance Service Fees and Charges.