Brisbane

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Emergency Services

Key services like police, fire, and ambulance, and how to access them in case of emergencies.

Sections

1. Types of Emergency Services in Brisbane

Brisbane offers a range of emergency services to address various situations. These include:

a. Police Services

  • Purpose: To handle crimes, public safety, and law enforcement.
  • Provider: Queensland Police Service (QPS).

b. Ambulance Services

  • Purpose: To provide medical assistance and transport to hospitals in emergencies.
  • Provider: Queensland Ambulance Service (QAS).

c. Fire and Rescue Services

  • Purpose: To respond to fires, hazardous material incidents, and rescue operations.
  • Provider: Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES).

d. State Emergency Service (SES)

  • Purpose: To assist with natural disasters (e.g., floods, storms) and other emergencies.
  • Provider: SES, a volunteer-based organization.

e. Poisons Information Centre

  • Purpose: To provide advice on poisoning, bites, and stings.
  • Provider: National Poisons Information Centre.

2. How to Contact Emergency Services

In Brisbane, there are specific numbers for different types of emergencies:

a. General Emergency Number: 000

  • When to Use: For life-threatening emergencies requiring police, fire, or ambulance services.
  • How to Call:
    1. Dial 000 from any phone (landline, mobile, or payphone).
    2. An operator will ask, "Police, Fire, or Ambulance?" Respond with the service you need.
    3. Provide your location and details of the emergency.

b. Non-Urgent Police Assistance: 131 444

  • When to Use: For non-urgent police matters, such as reporting a crime that has already occurred.

c. SES Assistance: 132 500

  • When to Use: For help with storm damage, flooding, or other natural disasters.

d. Poisons Information Centre: 13 11 26

  • When to Use: For advice on poisoning, bites, or stings.

e. Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS): 131 450

  • When to Use: If you need language assistance when contacting emergency services.

3. Costs Associated with Emergency Services

  • Police Services: Free of charge for emergency assistance.
  • Fire and Rescue Services: Free for emergency responses, but fees may apply for false alarms or non-emergency services.
  • Ambulance Services:
    • Queensland residents are covered for ambulance services anywhere in Australia through a state-funded scheme.
    • Visitors and non-residents may incur costs, which can range from AUD 400 to AUD 1,200 or more, depending on the distance and level of care provided. Travel insurance is highly recommended.
  • SES Assistance: Free of charge, as it is a volunteer-based service.
  • Poisons Information Centre: Free of charge.

4. Procedures for Receiving Assistance

a. In Case of a Medical Emergency

  1. Call 000 and request an ambulance.
  2. Provide your location and describe the medical issue.
  3. Follow the operator's instructions while waiting for paramedics.
  4. Paramedics will assess the situation and transport the patient to a hospital if necessary.

b. In Case of a Fire

  1. Call 000 and request fire services.
  2. Evacuate the area if it is safe to do so.
  3. Provide details of the fire and your location to the operator.
  4. Firefighters will arrive to extinguish the fire and ensure safety.

c. In Case of a Crime

  1. Call 000 for immediate threats or crimes in progress.
  2. For non-urgent matters, call 131 444.
  3. Provide details of the incident, including descriptions of people or vehicles involved.
  4. Police will respond and may follow up with an investigation.

d. During Natural Disasters

  1. Call 132 500 for SES assistance with storm or flood damage.
  2. Follow local government updates and warnings via the Queensland Government Disaster Management website or local radio stations.
  3. Evacuate if instructed and seek shelter in designated evacuation centers.

e. For Poisoning or Bites

  1. Call 13 11 26 for immediate advice.
  2. Provide details of the substance, bite, or sting.
  3. Follow the instructions given by the Poisons Information Centre.

5. Cultural and Local Considerations

  • Language Support: Emergency services in Brisbane are equipped to handle calls from non-English speakers. Use the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) by calling 131 450 and requesting assistance.
  • Respect for Emergency Workers: Emergency personnel are highly respected in Australia. Always follow their instructions and cooperate fully.
  • Preparedness for Natural Disasters: Brisbane is prone to severe storms and occasional flooding. Stay informed about weather conditions, and have an emergency kit ready.
  • False Alarms: Misusing emergency services (e.g., prank calls) is a criminal offense and can result in fines or legal action.
  • Health Insurance: Visitors and immigrants should ensure they have adequate health insurance or travel insurance to cover ambulance and medical costs.

6. Additional Resources

By familiarizing yourself with these emergency services and procedures, you can ensure your safety and well-being while in Brisbane. Always act promptly in emergencies and donโ€™t hesitate to seek help when needed.