Urgent and emergency care services in England
When to dial 999: responding to emergencies
At some point, most people will either witness or be involved in an accident or experience a medical emergency. Knowing what to do next and who to call can potentially save lives.
Life-threatening emergencies
Call 999 in a medical emergency – when someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.
Medical emergencies can include:
Call 999 immediately if you or someone else is having a heart attack or stroke. Every second counts with these conditions. Also call 999 if you think someone has had a major trauma. Major trauma is often the result of a serious road traffic accident, a stabbing, a shooting, a fall from height, or a serious head injury.
Choose the right care
Self Care |
Grazed knee Hangover Sore Throat Cough |
NHS 111 |
Unwell? Unsure? Need help? GP surgery closed? |
Pharmacy |
Diarrhoea Hayfever Painful cough Runny nose |
Your GP |
Ear Pain Fever Persistent vomiting Unexplained pains |
Urgent care centre or minor injury unit |
Broken bones Severe sunburn Sprains Strains |
Emergency Department or 999 |
Chest pains Heavy bleeding Sever burns Stroke |
Remember - The Emergency Department or 999 is for emergencies only