EMS Reference Materials
When a medical situation arises, knowing who to call — and when — can make all the difference. The St. James Fire Department EMS team has prepared the "Make the Right Call" reference guide to help St. James residents quickly identify the appropriate level of care for common medical situations.
Not every health concern requires a 911 call. Calling 911 for non-emergency situations can delay response to true life-threatening emergencies. This guide helps you understand when to call 911, when to contact your doctor or urgent care, and when home care is appropriate.
Call 911 Immediately For:
These are life-threatening emergencies that require an immediate EMS response:
- Chest pain, pressure, or tightness — possible heart attack.
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or choking.
- Signs of stroke: sudden face drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty (use the F.A.S.T. test).
- Unconsciousness or unresponsiveness.
- Severe bleeding that cannot be controlled.
- Suspected poisoning or drug overdose.
- Seizures, especially if the person has never had one before.
- Serious injuries from a fall, accident, or trauma.
- Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — hives, swelling, difficulty breathing.
Contact Your Doctor or Urgent Care For:
These situations need prompt medical attention but are not immediately life-threatening:
- Fever above 103°F in adults, or any fever in infants under 3 months.
- Minor cuts or lacerations that may need stitches.
- Sprains, strains, or suspected minor fractures.
- Urinary tract infections or other infections with worsening symptoms.
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea causing dehydration.
- Mild to moderate asthma symptoms that respond to your inhaler.
- Eye irritation, minor burns, or rashes.
Home Care Is Appropriate For:
Many common ailments can be safely managed at home with rest and over-the-counter remedies:
- Common cold, mild flu symptoms, or low-grade fever.
- Minor headaches or muscle aches.
- Small cuts, scrapes, or bruises.
- Mild stomach upset or heartburn.
- Insect bites without signs of allergic reaction.
The F.A.S.T. Stroke Test
Every minute counts during a stroke. Use F.A.S.T. to recognize the signs and act immediately:
- F — Face: Ask the person to smile. Does one side of the face droop?
- A — Arms: Ask the person to raise both arms. Does one arm drift downward?
- S — Speech: Ask the person to repeat a simple phrase. Is their speech slurred or strange?
- T — Time: If you see ANY of these signs, call 911 immediately.
Download the full "Make the Right Call" reference guide below and keep a printed copy accessible in your home. For questions, contact the St. James Fire Department at 910-253-9990 or [email protected].
Download "Make the Right Call" Reference Guide
PDF · Free · St. James Fire Department EMS
Key Safety Tips
- When in doubt, call 911 — dispatchers are trained to help you assess the situation.
- Never drive yourself to the ER if you are experiencing chest pain or stroke symptoms.
- Keep your doctor's after-hours number and the nearest urgent care address posted at home.
- Know the location of the nearest AED — St. James Fire Station has one available.
- Take a CPR/AED certification course — SJFD periodically offers community training.
- Post the SJFD non-emergency number (910-253-9990) on your refrigerator.