In an emergency, what numbers should you have?
Knowing who to call in an emergency is vital. Luckily, we live in an age of smartphones and great cell reception, but what if your phone is dead, damaged, or out of service areas? Having a list of emergency numbers is still as vital as it was thirty years ago.
Keeping numbers stored in your phone is a great idea, but having a hard copy of your emergency numbers in your glovebox or emergency kit is great too. That way, if you don’t have your phone or it’s not working, you can grab a number and make your way to a phone to call for help.
Emergency Service Numbers
If you are ever unfortunate enough to be involved in a traffic accident, then you’ll be happy to have these numbers close by! Here are some basic guidelines and what to do and who you need to call:
- 911 – If you’re involved in an accident and need immediate attention, call 911. The 911 operator will dispatch the emergency services, including fire, medical, or police. In addition, the operator will ask what your emergency is and your location.
Medical Numbers
- National Poison Control Center – If you have ingested something dangerous, then the National Poison Control Center is available 24/7 at 1-800-222-1222.
- Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – If you have any information you need about diseases such as Zika, Influenza, and Ebola, you should call the CDC on 1800-232-4636.
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – If you’re suicidal or just need to talk, then the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline offers 24/7 support on 1-800-273-8255.
Family, Friends, and Neighbors
If you’re ever in an emergency, friends, family, and even your neighbor are great resources to reach out for assistance. If you’re involved in any sort of accident, it’s important to let friends and family know what is going on and where you are. Other significant numbers include:
- Car Insurance – You should always have car insurance if you are operating any vehicle, and you should keep your car insurance information in your vehicle. In addition, most insurance companies require you to contact them as soon as possible after any accident.
- Family Emergency Contact – Your emergency contact should be someone close to you that can assist you in an emergency. It’s no good if they’re on the other side of the country and won’t be able to assist you. Also, someone that has their own vehicle and can get you in an emergency is preferable.
- Mechanic or Tow Truck Operator – If you live in Eagle or Summit County, Colorado, then add 970-476-1124 to your list of numbers. That’s the number for Mountain Recovery, and we’re available 24/7, 365 days a year.
When You Have Car Trouble
Remember, don’t always rely on your smartphone. It’s great to keep your important numbers in your phone, but you should always keep a set in your first aid kit or emergency kit in your phone.
If you have car trouble or in Eagle County or Summit County, Colorado, or need a tow Mountain Recovery is only a phone call away at 970-476-1124. We operate 24/7, 365 days a year, to keep you moving and help get back on the road.