Calling 911 for a Medical Crisis - Penn Mahoning Ambulance Association

📋 EMERGENCY CHECKLIST: Calling 911 for a Medical Crisis

Brought to you by the Penn Mahoning Ambulance Association (PMAA). Print this guide, keep it in a central location (like your refrigerator), and share it with family members or caretakers.

📞 STEP 1: What to Tell the 911 Dispatcher

Answering these questions does not delay help. PMAA crews are dispatched while you speak.

The Exact Address: Give the exact location in the West Penn/Mahoning area. Include the building number, long lane markers, or closest cross streets.
Your Phone Number: Give the number of the phone you are holding in case the call drops.
The Primary Problem: Tell them exactly what happened (e.g., “My family member collapsed,” “There was an accident on Route 309”).
Consciousness & Breathing: Clearly state if the patient is awake and breathing normally.

⏱️ STEP 2: While the Ambulance is En Route

Minutes matter. Take these quick steps to help PMAA find you and get to the patient without delay.

Secure All Pets: Put dogs and cats in a closed room. Animals can become highly protective or stressed when responders enter the home.
Turn On Exterior Lights: Turn on your porch, garage, and driveway lights, even during the daytime, to make your home stand out to the approaching ambulance.
Unlock the Front Door: Ensure the primary entrance is unlocked and unobstructed.
Clear the Driveway and Walkways: Move cars if possible and clear hallway furniture so our crew can safely wheel a stretcher straight to the patient.
Post a Spotter: If someone else is with you, have them stand by the edge of the road or driveway to wave down the PMAA vehicle.
Stay on the Line: Do not hang up until the dispatcher tells you to. Follow any emergency medical instructions they give you.

💼 STEP 3: Gather for the Ambulance crew

If it is safe to do so, collect these items to hand directly to the medical crew when they arrive.

The Patient’s ID: Driver’s license or state identification card.
Medication List: A complete list of current medications and dosages (or place all their physical pill bottles into a single bag).
Medical History: A quick list of known medical conditions, allergies, or past surgeries.
Emergency Documents: Any legal medical documents, such as a DNR (Do Not Resuscitate) order or Living Will, if applicable.

PMAA Reminder:Never hesitate to call. If you believe you are experiencing a life-threatening medical emergency, call 911 immediately.