When to Call 911 vs Treat at Home

Knowing when to treat, drive, or dial 911 prevents panic and saves lives.

Call 911 Immediately For

• Breathing emergencies
• Severe bleeding
• Unresponsiveness
• Stroke symptoms (FAST)
• Heart attack signs
• Serious head/neck/back injury

Go to ER or Urgent Care For

• Broken bones
• Deep cuts with stitches needed
• Large burns
• High fever that won’t drop

Treat at Home For

• Minor cuts and scrapes
• Small burns (1st degree)
• Mild sprains and strains
• Nosebleeds
• Minor insect stings

General Rule of Thumb

If it affects breathing, bleeding, brain, or consciousness → call 911.

Signal Learning Inc. (2026). First Aid and Disaster Preparedness Content. Used with permission.