Moving to a new country can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating emergency services. For Ukrainian refugees starting a new chapter in the United States, understanding how to access help during emergencies is vital. This guide provides clear, practical information to ensure you know how to act quickly and confidently when the unexpected happens.
Emergency services in the United States are centralized through a universal system: dialling 911. This number connects you to police, fire departments, and ambulance services. Whether you’re witnessing a crime, facing a medical emergency, or encountering a fire, 911 is your first point of contact. Emergency services operate 24/7, ensuring that help is always available when you need it.
Understanding how the emergency system works, who it serves, and when to use it can empower you to handle stressful situations more effectively. Familiarize yourself with these services to feel more confident and secure.
Steps to Call 911
Dial 911 on any phone: Both mobile and landline phones can access this number, even if you don’t have an active phone plan or prepaid minutes.
Stay calm and speak clearly: The operator will ask for your location, the nature of the emergency, and your contact information. It’s important to remain calm so the dispatcher can understand your situation and send the appropriate help quickly.
Provide exact details: Clearly describe your location (address, nearby landmarks, or GPS coordinates) to help responders find you quickly. If you are unsure of your location, try to describe what you see around you—street signs, buildings, or other notable features.
Follow instructions: The dispatcher may guide you through first aid steps, advise you to move to a safe location, or provide other instructions while help is on the way. Listen carefully and follow their guidance.
Do not hang up: Stay on the line until the dispatcher tells you it is okay to disconnect. They may need more information to ensure the responders are fully prepared when they arrive.
911 services often provide interpreters to assist callers who do not speak English. When you call, immediately state your preferred language (e.g., “Ukrainian”). The dispatcher will connect you to a translator who can help facilitate communication. This service ensures you can explain your emergency clearly and receive appropriate help.
If you call 911 from a mobile phone, the dispatcher may use GPS to determine your location. However, it is still essential to provide your location verbally, as GPS technology can occasionally be imprecise, particularly in buildings or remote areas.
Emergencies are situations that pose an immediate threat to life, safety, or property. Understanding what qualifies as an emergency can help you decide when to call 911. Here are common examples:
- Medical emergencies: Heart attacks, severe injuries, strokes, difficulty breathing, or any other condition that threatens life or requires immediate medical attention.
- Crime in progress: Assaults, robberies, break-ins, domestic violence, or suspicious activity that poses an immediate risk.
- Fires: House fires, vehicle fires, or wildfires that threaten property or lives.
- Serious accidents: Car crashes involving injuries, hazardous chemical spills, or other dangerous situations.
If you are unsure whether your situation is an emergency, it is better to err on the side of caution and call 911. The dispatcher will assess the situation and decide whether to send emergency responders.
Examples, which don’t qualify as an emergency: are minor injuries or illnesses that can wait for a doctor’s visit; reporting a theft or vandalism that has already occurred and poses no immediate threat; and general inquiries about public services or events.
Unsafe conditions can harm individuals or the community. Common unsafe conditions include public hazards like broken sidewalks or damaged traffic lights, fire risks such as blocked exits or flammable materials, housing issues like mold or exposed wiring, and workplace safety concerns such as dangerous equipment or chemical exposure.
Contact local government offices for public infrastructure issues, the fire department for immediate fire risks, OSHA for workplace violations, or landlords and housing authorities for unsafe living conditions.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or abuse, there are confidential and free resources available to help:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) or text “START” to 88788. This hotline operates 24/7 and provides support, safety planning, and connections to local resources.
Local Shelters and Advocacy Groups: Many communities have shelters that offer temporary housing, counseling, and legal assistance. Search online or contact local authorities for recommendations.
Police Assistance: In cases of immediate danger, call 911. Police officers are trained to respond to domestic violence situations and can connect you to local services.
Child Protective Services (CPS): If a child is being abused, contact CPS in your area. Each state has a dedicated hotline for reporting child abuse.
Community Centers: Many Ukrainian-American organizations provide additional support and resources for families facing domestic violence.
Additional Tips for Refugees
Save Emergency Contacts: Program essential numbers such as 911, non-emergency lines, and your local Ukrainian consulate into your phone for quick access.
- Educate Your Family: Teach all family members, including children, how to call 911 and clearly explain what type of help they need.
- Prepare an Emergency Kit: Include vital documents, basic medical supplies, water, snacks, and a list of emergency contacts.
- Learn Key English Phrases: Phrases like “help,” “sick,” and “fire” can be invaluable for communicating during emergencies
Understanding how to use emergency services in the U.S. can save lives and provide peace of mind. For Ukrainian refugees, this knowledge is a crucial step toward feeling secure and supported in your new home. Stay safe, stay informed, and remember: help is always just a phone call away.