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Your Guide to Emergency Services: Staying Safe at Home and Away
- Harrell Homes
- 7 days ago
- 3 min read
Knowing how and when to use emergency services is a vital life skill for everyone. For caregivers, family members, and the individuals we support with intellectual disabilities, having a clear understanding of these services is the foundation of a proactive safety plan. Emergency services are our community's safety net, and understanding them empowers us to respond with confidence in a crisis.
What Are Emergency Services and When to Use Them?
Emergency services are the first responders who provide immediate assistance in life-threatening situations. They include police, fire, and medical personnel.
You should call emergency services for:
A medical emergency (e.g., someone is unconscious, having a heart attack, or has a severe injury).
A fire or fire-related incident.
A crime in progress or a dangerous situation (e.g., an intruder, an accident).
Any situation where someone's health, safety, or property is in immediate danger.
The universal rule is this: If you are ever in doubt, it is always better to call. Emergency operators are trained to help you determine if it's a real emergency.
The Evolving Face of Emergency Services
The traditional phone call is still the most common way to reach emergency services, but modern technology has provided new tools to enhance safety.
Text-to-911: In many areas, you can now text 911 if you are unable to speak or if a voice call would put you in danger. This is a critical option for individuals with speech impairments or in situations where silence is necessary.
Emergency Services on Your Phone: Most smartphones have built-in emergency features.
iPhone: The "Emergency SOS" feature can automatically call 911 and notify your emergency contacts with your location. The "Medical ID" feature stores critical health information (like medical conditions, allergies, and emergency contacts) on the lock screen, making it accessible to first responders without needing a passcode.
Android: The "Safety and Emergency" settings on an Android phone offer similar features, allowing you to set up emergency contacts and medical information.
Caregivers should help set up these features on a loved one's phone and review them regularly.
Emergency Services While Traveling
Your safety net extends beyond your home country. It’s crucial to know how to call for help when traveling.
International Travel: 112 is the single European emergency number, working in all EU countries and many others like the UK, Switzerland, and South Africa. For other popular destinations, the emergency number may be different (e.g., 911 in Mexico and Canada). A quick search of the country you're visiting can tell you the right number to use.
ICE (In Case of Emergency): Program an "ICE" contact number into your phone's contacts. This is a universally recognized way for first responders to know who to call in an emergency. It's especially useful for local travel where a loved one's phone might be found.
Local and National Resources
While 911 is for emergencies, many other resources can provide support in non-life-threatening situations.
Community Support: For non-emergency needs, remember local services like 211, which can connect you to community resources for social, health, and government support.
The ARC: Organizations like The ARC of the United States can provide advocacy, support, and resources for individuals with intellectual disabilities.
Mental Health Support: For general mental health questions or resources, services like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) offer support and information for families and individuals.
Being prepared is a powerful act of care. By understanding the emergency services available to us, we can ensure a safer and more secure environment for ourselves and the people we support.
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