Back to SearchThe City of Yellowknife (the City) is reminding residents to take into consideration the seriousness of the situation before calling emergency services. The Yellowknife Fire Division (YKFD) continues to receive a high volume of calls for emergency medical services, which is adding pressure on the service.
An ambulance enables firefighter/paramedics to begin medical treatment when they arrive on location, extending treatment through the ambulance during transport to the hospital. An ambulance should only be called for a person who needs immediate emergency medical assistance. The public can help the City improve the availability of all services provided by the YKFD to those who need it most when we reduce the number of calls and call-outs for incidents that do not require an emergency response.
An ambulance should be called for a potentially life-threatening emergency or if the person is experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- Chest pain or chest tightness;
- Sudden numbness or paralysis of the face, arm or leg;
- Large burns;
- Serious accidents or trauma;
- Severe bleeding;
- Difficulty breathing;
- Extreme pain; or,
- Unconsciousness.
An ambulance should not be called for the following instances: to treat minor cuts or abrasions, to get quicker attention in the emergency room, or for public situations that are not medical emergencies.
The Yellowknife Street Outreach program assists individuals who are at risk, vulnerable or street-involved and who need help getting to a safe location. If members of the public see someone in need of assistance, and it is not a medical emergency, consider calling (867) 445-7202.
The RCMP should be contacted to report a crime, or for immediate police assistance.
When in doubt call 9-1-1.
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For more information:
Sarah Sibley
Manager, Economic Development and Communications
City of Yellowknife
867-920-5600
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