Teaching Children to Stay Safe: A Parent’s Guide to Calling Emergency Services (000)

Teaching children to call emergency services helps them stay safe and confident during emergencies. Start with simple steps, practise regularly, and use child-friendly apps to build skills. With gentle support, children can learn when and how to call 000 and what information to share.

Why Calling Emergency Services Matters for Every Child

Emergencies can feel overwhelming for anyone. For children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, or learning differences, the stress can be even greater. Teaching them how to call Triple Zero (000) gives them a clear plan, supporting confidence and safety.

What Is 000?

Calling emergency services means dialling 000 when someone needs urgent help from police, fire, or ambulance. Calls are free and available 24/7.

When Should a Child Call 000?

Call 000 when: – Someone is hurt – There is a fire – Someone is unconscious – An adult cannot wake up

Do NOT call 000 for: – Lost toys – Sibling arguments – Feeling upset or lonely

How to Teach Children to Call Emergency Services

1. Start With Predictable Routines

Use short sentences and simple explanations.

2. Use Hands-On Learning

Let the child practise dialling 000 on a disconnected phone or simulation app.

3. Teach a Simple Script

• “My name is __.”
• “I need help.”
• “My address is __.”

4. Practise the Address

Use visual cards or repetition.

5. Use Apps to Build Confidence

• The Keep App (https://www.thekeepapp.com.au/)
• Triple 000 Trainer (https://www.coolkidsfirstaid.com/triple-000-trainer/)
• Hopscotch & Harmony Emergency Prep Guide (https://www.hopscotchandharmony.com.au/blog/must-have-app-to-prepare-children-for-emergencies)

6. Use Visual Sequencing Cards

Create cards showing steps from identifying an emergency to speaking to an operator.

7. Download our Free Resources

• Emergency Services Visual
• Emergency Services Social Story
• Emergency Services Sorting Activity (Cut & Paste) 

Emergency Preparedness for Families

Break skills into small steps, use social stories, repeat often, and support emotional regulation.

Tips for Different Needs

Autism

Use clear visuals, quiet practice spaces, and literal explanations.

ADHD

Short sessions and movement-based practice work well.

Anxiety

Teach calming strategies alongside emergency skills.

Learning Difficulties

Use repetition and simplified visuals.

Community Supports

• NDIS: https://www.ndis.gov.au/
• Autism Awareness Australia: https://www.autismawareness.com.au/

Creating a Family Emergency Plan

Include: – Address card – Emergency contacts – Social story – Phone locations

FAQ

When should children learn to call 000? As early as four, with simple steps.

What if my child cannot speak clearly? Teach keywords or use AAC.

How often should we practise? Weekly or monthly.

Will my child get in trouble for accidental calls? Accidental calls happen; practise reduces risk.