What to Do in a Medical Emergency in Lagos
Emergency · Lagos
In an emergency, the first few minutes matter. Knowing what to look for, who to call and what to do while help is on its way can make a real difference. Read this guide now, while things are calm, and share it with the people you live with.
Quick Answer
If someone is seriously ill or injured, call for help immediately. In Lagos, the State emergency lines are 112 and 767. For The Comforter Hospital, call 0802 306 0423. Our emergency department is open 24 hours a day. Stay with the person, keep them safe and do not give food or drink to anyone who is drowsy or unconscious.
Signs of a medical emergency
- Chest pain or pressure, especially if it spreads to the arm, jaw or back
- Difficulty breathing, choking or lips turning blue
- Signs of a stroke: a drooping face, weakness in an arm, or slurred speech
- Severe bleeding that will not stop with firm pressure
- Collapse, unconsciousness or a fit
- Severe burns, a serious head injury or a suspected broken bone
- In pregnancy: heavy bleeding, severe tummy pain, severe headache with blurred vision, or reduced baby movements
- In children: a fit, difficulty breathing, or a child who is floppy or hard to wake
What to do while you wait
- Keep yourself and the person safe. Move away from traffic, fire or other danger if it is safe to do so.
- Check whether they are responsive and breathing.
- If they are breathing but unresponsive, turn them gently onto their side to keep the airway clear.
- Press firmly on any heavy bleeding with a clean cloth.
- Do not give food, drink or medicine to someone who is drowsy or unconscious.
- Note the time symptoms started; doctors will ask.
Know the stroke signs: FAST
Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to get help immediately.
What to bring to the hospital
- A list of the person’s medicines, or the medicine packets themselves
- Any hospital cards, records or recent test results
- A phone and charger
- Details of a family member or next of kin
Prepare your household today
Save emergency numbers in every phone in your home, including 112, 767 and the hospital. Make sure older children know their address and how to call for help. Keep a simple first aid kit at home and in the car.
24-hour emergency care in Surulere
The Comforter Hospital’s emergency department is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year, with doctors on site around the clock. We care for adults, children and pregnant women from across Surulere, Pako Aguda and the wider Lagos Mainland.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Lagos emergency numbers?
The Lagos State emergency lines are 112 and 767. You can also call The Comforter Hospital directly on 0802 306 0423.
Should I drive someone to hospital myself?
If the person is stable and you can travel safely, it may be quicker in Lagos traffic. If they are unconscious, not breathing normally or badly injured, call for emergency help.
Should I call the hospital before I arrive?
If you can, yes. Call 0802 306 0423 on the way so our team knows you are coming and can prepare.
Is the emergency department open at night and at weekends?
Yes. Our emergency department is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Related reading
- Starting to Exercise Safely: A Practical Guide for Busy Lagos Adults
- Signs of Labour: When to Go to the Hospital
- Childhood Vaccinations in Nigeria: A Parent’s Guide
This article is for general education and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. Please speak with a qualified healthcare professional about your own circumstances. In an emergency, call the hospital on 0802 306 0423 or the Lagos State emergency lines 112 or 767.
