Perth

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Emergency Communication

Guidance on how to contact emergency services or receive important alerts in Perth.

Sections

1. Emergency Contact Numbers in Perth

In Australia, including Perth, there are standardized emergency contact numbers for various situations. These numbers are toll-free and accessible from any phone, including mobile phones without credit.

  • 000 (Triple Zero): The primary emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services.

    • When you call, an operator will ask which service you require (police, fire, or ambulance) and your location.
    • If you are unsure which service you need, explain the situation, and they will guide you.

  • 112: An alternative emergency number for mobile phones. It works even if your phone is locked, has no credit, or is out of network coverage (as long as another network is available).

  • 106: A text-based emergency number for people with hearing or speech impairments. This service is accessible via a TTY (teletypewriter) device.

  • 131 444: For non-urgent police assistance (e.g., reporting a minor crime or suspicious activity).

  • 1800 333 000: Crime Stoppers, for reporting crimes anonymously.

  • 13 11 26: Poisons Information Centre, for advice on poisoning or toxic substances.

  • 1800 551 800: Kids Helpline, for children and young people needing support.

  • 13 11 14: Lifeline, for mental health crises or emotional support.

2. Procedures to Follow During Emergencies

If you find yourself in an emergency situation in Perth, follow these steps:

a. Dial the Appropriate Emergency Number

  • Call 000 (or 112 from a mobile) and clearly state:
    • The type of emergency (e.g., fire, medical, or police).
    • Your location (provide landmarks or street names if possible).
    • Your phone number in case the operator needs to call you back.
  • Stay calm and answer the operatorโ€™s questions clearly.

b. Follow Instructions

  • The operator may provide instructions (e.g., performing CPR, evacuating a building, or staying on the line until help arrives). Follow these carefully.

c. Stay Safe

  • If it is safe to do so, remain at the scene until emergency services arrive. If the situation is dangerous (e.g., a fire or flood), move to a safe location and inform the operator of your new location.

d. Notify Others

  • If possible, inform family or friends about your situation once you are safe.

3. Mobile and Public Communication Services

Perth has a well-developed communication infrastructure, making it easy to contact emergency services or stay connected during emergencies.

a. Mobile Networks

  • Major mobile providers in Perth include Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone. These networks cover most urban areas, but coverage may be limited in remote regions.
  • Ensure your phone is charged and has credit (if not on a postpaid plan). However, emergency calls (000 or 112) can be made without credit.

b. Public Telephones

  • Public payphones are available throughout Perth, especially in busy areas like shopping centers, train stations, and tourist spots. Calls to 000 are free from public phones.

c. Internet and Wi-Fi

  • Many public places in Perth, such as libraries, cafes, and shopping centers, offer free Wi-Fi. In emergencies, you can use these networks to contact help via messaging apps or email if phone lines are unavailable.

d. Emergency Alert System

  • The Australian government uses an Emergency Alert System to send text messages to mobile phones in areas affected by emergencies (e.g., bushfires, floods). These messages provide critical information and instructions.

e. Translation and Interpretation Services

  • If you do not speak English, you can request a translator when calling 000. The operator will connect you to an interpreter through the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National).

4. Associated Costs

  • Emergency Calls: Free of charge, including calls to 000, 112, and 106.
  • Public Payphones: Calls to emergency numbers are free. Other calls may cost a small fee (e.g., 50 cents for local calls).
  • Mobile Data/Wi-Fi: Using public Wi-Fi is usually free, but mobile data charges depend on your plan.

5. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Natural Disasters

  • Perth is prone to bushfires, especially during the summer months (December to February). Stay informed about fire warnings via the Emergency WA website (https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au) or local radio stations.
  • Flooding and severe storms can also occur. Monitor weather updates through the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website (http://www.bom.gov.au).

b. Emergency Preparedness

  • Save emergency numbers in your phone and write them down in case your phone battery dies.
  • Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital, police station, and fire station.
  • Keep a basic emergency kit at home, including a flashlight, first aid supplies, and a portable phone charger.

c. Cultural Sensitivity

  • Australians value direct and clear communication. When speaking to emergency operators, be concise and provide as much relevant information as possible.
  • If you are a visitor or new to Perth, locals are generally helpful and willing to assist in emergencies. Donโ€™t hesitate to ask for help if needed.

d. Emergency Apps

  • Download the Emergency+ app (available on iOS and Android). This app provides quick access to emergency numbers and uses GPS to help you provide your exact location to operators.
  • The Fires Near Me WA app is useful for real-time updates on bushfires in Western Australia.

6. Key Resources

  • Emergency WA: https://www.emergency.wa.gov.au (real-time updates on emergencies in Western Australia).
  • Bureau of Meteorology (BOM): http://www.bom.gov.au (weather warnings and forecasts).
  • St John Ambulance WA: https://stjohnwa.com.au (first aid and ambulance services in Perth).
  • WA Police Force: https://www.police.wa.gov.au (non-urgent police assistance and crime reporting).

By following these guidelines and utilizing the resources provided, you can effectively navigate emergency situations in Perth. Stay safe!