Call emergency services
Dial your region’s emergency number immediately and say you suspect a heart attack. In the UK call 999; in the USA/Canada call 911; in the EU call 112. Follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Do not delay seeking help.
Know the signs. Act fast.
Recognising a heart attack quickly and calling for help can save a life. This public‑information site explains the common warning signs, what to do in an emergency, and why every minute matters. We provide region‑specific guidance based on reputable health organisations. Nothing here replaces professional medical advice.
If you think someone is having a heart attack
Stay with the person
Keep them calm and seated comfortably, ideally upright with knees bent and head supported. Reassure them help is on the way. Check their breathing and responsiveness.
Do not drive yourself
Ambulance crews can begin treatment sooner and take you to the right facility. Driving yourself or someone else can delay care and put others at risk.
Be prepared for CPR
If the person becomes unresponsive and stops breathing normally, you may need to start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Learn CPR from accredited organisations and use an automated external defibrillator (AED) if one is available.
Why speed matters
A heart attack occurs when blood flow to part of the heart muscle is blocked. Without oxygen, heart muscle begins to die within minutes. Prompt treatment restores blood flow and greatly improves survival and recovery. Never wait to see if symptoms pass—call for help right away.
Learn about heart health
What is a heart attack?
Understand the causes of heart attacks and how they differ from other heart conditions.
Warning signs & symptoms
Recognise common and atypical symptoms so you can act quickly.
Heart attack vs cardiac arrest
Learn the difference between a heart attack (blood flow problem) and cardiac arrest (electrical problem).
Risk factors & prevention
Discover ways to reduce your risk, including lifestyle changes and managing existing conditions.
Emergency numbers by region
| Region | Emergency number |
|---|---|
| United Kingdom | 999 |
| United States & Canada | 911 |
| European Union | 112 |
For regional guidance on aspirin and emergency care, see our UK, USA/Canada and EU pages.
Latest research & public guidance
The organisations below provide trustworthy information on heart attack recognition, treatment and prevention. We link to them for further reading; links open in new tabs.