I had a major health issue a few years ago and yealled at my husband to phone for an ambulance. He seemed to taking forever while I was in extreme pain and felt like I was dying. Several months later I found out that he (a grown man) had no idea that you had to dial 000. He had called the hospital and they put him through to 000. I was stunned and then freaked out that this was the man I would leave my children with.

Great article and something all parents should teach their children. One never knows what’s around the corner.

A very wise article and very important for kids to know.

I taught my kids how to dial 000 as soon as they could understand numbers. Then I explained to them why they would need to call 000. Fortunately, they haven’t had to yet

Great article. Will keep this mind.

My kids have been taught about 000. They know their name, age, address and hopefully they won’t need to put their skills to the test

This is a great article. I work for an emergency centre and have just taken a few hours out of my day recently to go speak with the local kindy which my boys attend. I spoke to kids ranged from 2-10 years and proved even the littliest child in the class (approx 18months) can help as he pushed an adult volunteer into recovery position. (On their side). Another child (approx 7 years) learnt what hazard lights were in a car and how she could safely draw attention to herself if she’s the only one still awake after a car accident. She also learnt how to supprt 2 patients heads at once whilst awaiting for the help. I handed them out a laminated sheet each with magnets that stated their address and phone number so the parents could put them on the fridge for the kids. A good point also to know is most houses landlines have to have a registered address so let the littlies know if there is no danger to call 000 from the house phone if its registered. I also brushed upon strnger danger and “safe spots” if they feel threatened and how to trust their insitncts (trust your gut in kids words :-P)

yep, this is a great article, thanks for sharing – timely with spring/summer approaching too

Yes it’s very important for the family to know these life saving skills!

thanks mary this is a great post and a timely reminder to not underestimate our kids

Great article and good reminder to all parents. Whilst Miss 8 knows what to do, I’m at home with Miss 3 most of the time….should teach her now too I think.

I have taught my son all about 000. Haven’t had to put it into practice yet so no idea if he understands it

Certainly an important skill for children to learn. Even our youngest (almost 3) can now clearly repeat messages, but can also independently say our street and suburb name, her name, and our names. We’re working on our street number, and later our phone number.

This is something we are currently teaching our 3 year old about. And what to do incase of an emergency.

yep teach your children their deets!

Excellent article and a friendly reminder that accidents happen and only a child is with us in a time of dire need!

Very good article, we must trust our children can do what’s right.

I really must get onto this. It’s something I’ve overlooked.

The trick is how to educate the imaginary child that a non emergency doesn’t require calling 000

It’s very important for the little one to learn about emergency situations.