As winter sets in across Victoria, Ambulance Victoria is urging the community to take simple steps to make their homes easier for paramedics to find and access in an emergency.
Shorter days, poor weather and limited visibility during evening call-outs can delay ambulance crews when minutes matter most.
A clearly marked home that is easily accessible can make a critical difference when someone’s life is on the line.
Here’s how you can help:
• Clearly display your street number — Ensure it’s large, easy to read, and visible from the road day and night.
• Turn on your outdoor lights — Especially if you’ve called triple-0 or know paramedics are on the way.
• Keep access clear — Move any obstructions from driveways and paths, and unlock gates where possible.
• Secure pets — Contain dogs or other animals to ensure Ambulance Victoria crews can reach you quickly and safely.
• Provide access details — Let the call taker know of any key lock boxes and any gate codes or access information that crews might need.
• Let Ambulance Victoria know if your property is hard to find — This information can be passed to paramedics on route.
Ambulance Victoria acting executive director of regional operations Narelle Capp said these small steps can help save precious time.
“In winter, it’s often dark and wet when paramedics are called out, and some homes are really difficult to spot or access,” Ms Capp said.
“Having lights on, visible house numbers, pets safely secured, and key or gate information available can help us reach patients faster and deliver care without delay,” she said.
According to Ambulance Victoria, while GPS and digital maps are useful, they do not replace clear visual cues or physical access to the property.
Taking a few moments now to prepare your home could make all the difference during an emergency.
Ambulance Victoria encourages everyone to step outside after dark this week and check how visible and accessible their property really is — and to spread the word to family, friends, and neighbours.
