Safety and Emergency Tips
Health Care for Non-emergencies
Knowing what care is available for you and your family before you get sick can help ensure that you receive treatment as quickly as possible.
If your health concern is not an emergency, you can:
- Call Telehealth Ontario toll-free at 1-866-797-0000 and speak with a Registered Nurse 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Visit your doctor. Be aware of your doctor’s holiday office hours
- Go to your nearest walk-in clinic
Emergency room care
During the holidays, the emergency room is extremely busy and long waits are common; your patience is appreciated. Whether they walk in or are brought in by paramedics, patients are seen based on the seriousness of their health condition as assessed by a Registered Triage Nurse. Visit the emergency room for emergencies only.
A medical emergency is any situation when the safety of people is at risk and requires immediate assistance. Examples of a medical emergency include:
- Chest pain or tightness
- A fracture or break in bone
- A wound that needs stitches
- Severe pain or shortness of breath
- Choking or difficulty breathing
- Sudden, severe headache, vision problems, sudden weakness, numbness and/or tingling in the face, arm or leg, trouble speaking or dizziness
- A child experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting that will not eat or drink
- A baby under six months with a fever above 37.9°C or 100°F
- A baby over six months with a fever above 38.5°C or 101°F
Visit the 911 website for more information about the service.
Related Links
In an emergency, always call 9-1-1
