According to protocols, when should you call 911 during a disaster?

Calling 911 during a disaster is crucial for ensuring timely assistance in life-threatening situations. The correct approach is to contact emergency services when someone is critically ill or injured because this indicates that immediate medical attention is necessary. This guideline emphasizes the urgency of the situation, as critical conditions may require resource-intensive responses, including ambulance services and potential hospital intervention.

In a disaster scenario, rapid assessment of injuries is essential. While all injuries should be taken seriously, not every situation requires an emergency call. For instance, minor injuries, such as small cuts or bruises, usually can be managed without professional medical help and do not warrant a call to emergency services. Similarly, inquiring about emergency procedures does not constitute an emergency that requires 911 involvement; it can create unnecessary strain on resources during critical times when urgent situations may be developing. It is vital, therefore, to reserve emergency calls for serious cases to ensure that help is available where it is most needed.