Tips when calling Triple Zero (000)
- Stay Calm.
- You will be asked if you require police, fire or ambulance. Select the service you require.
- You will then be connected to an emergency call taker who will ask you a series of questions.
- If you are on a mobile phone you will be asked to provide the Town and State details of the Emergency. This ensures you are connected to the correct locality for response.
- It is vital to ensure that the correct information is provided so that the emergency service requested can attend your situation.
It is important to remember that the questions are asked to provide you with the best and fastest service for your needs. In time-critical situations the emergency services are being dispatched while you are being questioned. Your information will continue to be updated throughout the call.
Using your mobile in an emergency
When possible, it's recommended that you contact Emergency Services by calling Triple Zero (000) from a fixed phone.
At any one time, network capacity, topography, climate and even the number of users in a particular location, can affect your ability to make a call in an emergency using a mobile. That's why it's best not to rely on your mobile as the only way to communicate. So, if circumstances require it, consider carrying a specialised emergency communication device such as an HF, VHF or UHF radio, or a satellite phone.
It's important to remember that the number to call in an emergency situation depends on whether your mobile uses the GSM or Next G™ network.
If you have a GSM / Next G™ mobile
To get help from police, fire or ambulance services in Australia, dial '000' or '112'. Contact can even be made if your mobile has been blocked or your security settings have been activated.
You can still attempt a normal '000'emergency call from a GSM or Next G™ mobile but if you do not have reception with your own carrier, you can dial '112' and your call will be carried by any available GSM network if it is available.
SMS in emergencies
Sending an SMS text message in an emergency situation is not advised, as delivery cannot be guaranteed. For instance, the person you are trying to contact may not have their phone switched on or their battery may be flat. Apart from this, emergency services don't have a number where SMS text messages can be sent.
