Today’s blog focuses on what to do in an emergency situation, who to call and in particular some strategies for teaching kids about what to when an emergency
situation arises. Kids need to learn how and when to call triple zero (000) and there are some great games to teach them.
There’s no harm in all of us getting a refresher on calling triple zero (000) and here are some guidelines below:
When should you call triple zero (000)?
- If a crime is happening now.
- When a life is threatened.
- When the event is time critical, for example a fire.
What happens if you are speech or hearing impaired?
If you have a speech or hearing disability the triple zero service (000) can be accessed via the National Relay Service on 106.
What happens when you call triple zero (000)?
- When you dial 000, your call is connected to the Telstra Emergency Call Service centre.
- Telstra operators will ask which service you require – Police, Fire or Ambulance.
- You respond by advising the operator which of those services you require assistance from.
- Your call will then be rapidly connected to the Emergency Service requested.
- If you don’t respond because you are unable to talk, your call will be forwarded to an automated system, where you will be asked to push ‘5 5’ on the
telephone keypad if you still require assistance. Pushing ‘5 5’ directs the call to Police, who will assess the circumstances and decide on the
most suitable response.
It’s important to remember that we reside in Australia and not the USA so our emergency number is triple zero (000) NOT 911 – as seen in many American
television and movies
A great way to teach kids about triple zero is by playing games and solving mysteries. Check out the Triple Zero Challenge where they’ll learn about safety messages and hear what happens when you call Triple Zero. Along the way they will meet the “Zeros” as they are guided
step by step through the game.
The game teaches kids some very important issues when faced with an emergency such as staying relevant, prank calls, escape routes and establishing a safe
meeting place and how to tell if someone is breathing.
We are also coming into the season where cyclones, storms and floods can occur. A recent new campaign, Get Ready Queensland, ensures people are aware and prepared.
Important Contacts and Links
Life Threatening Emergency – Call 000
Disaster Recovery Hotline: 1800 173 349
Lifeline 24-hour crisis support: 13 11 14
SES: 132 500
Centrelink: 180 22 66
Other links
ABC emergency services network
There is more information about the range of services Sinnamon Lawyers specialise in on our website.
For obligation free advice, please don’t hesitate to call us on 1800 007 277 or email