You’re calling 911 too much.
Sorry, but you are – and it’s causing problems.
Blame the incessant TV commercials from your childhood. Blame the ease those three little numbers suggest. Regardless, it’s not the catchall you’ve been taught to believe it is.
So in the interest of getting help as quickly as possible, Toronto Paramedic Services has come up with a new campaign, Make The Right Call, to help inform you of the various options you do have.
Of course, during any life-threatening emergency – when a person cannot breathe, is unconscious, appears to be suffering a stroke or heart attack, or has suffered a traumatic injury such as a car accident or a fall – 911 should always be the first call. It ensures that a highly trained paramedic will be immediately sent to the location.
If the situation does not appear to be life threatening, however, you have better options that allow the mobile emergency room more time to get to the situation where they’re really needed.
If it’s not a medical emergency, the following are better options for seeking out the help you need.
Telehealth Ontario, 1-866-797-0000
This free, confidential telephone service allows you to quickly get health advice and general health information from a registered nurse. If someone you know is coming down with the flu or has symptoms you are unsure about, this is a good option for quick advice on what to do next.
A Family Physician
Your family doctor is always a great place to start if you’re feeling under the weather. If you do not currently have a family physician, you can find one through the Ministry’s Health Care Connect Program.
A Walk-in Clinic
You can always find the nearest Walk-in Clinic to your home by simply keying in your postal code here. If you or someone in your family has suffered a sprain or other minor ailment, and would like it seen by a medical professional, this is a good option. And remember: the early patients don’t have to deal with much of a wait time, so try to go first thing in the morning when it opens.
Toronto Police Non-Emergency Line, 416-808-2222
If you require Police assistance, but you’re not in an emergency situation (for example, to report a theft, vandalism, fraud, etc.) or for other situations where there’s no immediate danger, this is the correct number to call.
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