Providing first aid is only part of the response. When emergency services arrive, a clear and structured handover helps ensure continuity of care and supports an effective outcome.
This guide explains what information to provide, how handover works in practice, and what typically happens after emergency services take over.
This information is general guidance and does not replace professional medical advice.
A handover is the transfer of responsibility from the first aider to emergency services. It involves sharing key information about the casualty and the situation.
A clear handover helps emergency responders quickly understand what has happened and what actions have already been taken.
When handing over to emergency services, focus on clear and relevant information.
| Information | What to include |
|---|---|
| Incident details | What happened and when |
| Casualty condition | Symptoms and changes observed |
| First aid given | Actions taken and response |
| Medical history (if known) | Allergies or existing conditions |
| Time factors | When symptoms started or worsened |
When speaking to emergency responders:
See How to Call Emergency Services.
Once emergency services take over:
At this point, responsibility shifts to trained medical professionals.
You may still be asked to assist by:
Workplaces should include handover procedures in their emergency planning to ensure consistency.
After the situation, details should be recorded as part of workplace procedures.
See Accident Reporting & Records.
First aid does not end when help arrives. A clear handover ensures that the next stage of care is based on accurate and complete information.
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