The institution emphasises that the emergency number 112 should only be contacted in serious or life-threatening situations, such as respiratory difficulties, intense chest pain, suspected stroke, loss of consciousness, uncontrollable bleeding, or significant trauma resulting from falls, collisions, or projection of objects.

For non-urgent situations, the Local Health Unit (ULS) recommends prior contact with the National Health Service (SNS 24) hotline (808 24 24 24), which provides clinical triage, advice, and appropriate referral.

The unit advises users to carry their health service number and information about their usual medication.

In the event of flooding in homes, the ULS emphasises the importance of switching off electricity and gas whenever safe to do so, avoiding contact with potentially contaminated water, and protecting any wounds by washing them with clean water.

The health unit also highlights the risks of inhaling water, even in apparent recovery after submersion. Symptoms such as shortness of breath, a persistent cough, chest pain, excessive drowsiness, or confusion warrant urgent medical attention.

In the event of a head injury, the recommendation is clear: do not wait for the condition to worsen if signs such as loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, intense headache, seizures, or neurological changes appear; emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Whenever travel is unavoidable, the Santo António Local Health Unit advises strict adherence to Civil Protection guidelines: carry identification, chronic medication, water, and a fully charged mobile phone, and contact the SNS 24 (National Health Service 24-hour helpline) in advance if chronic illness worsens.

The institution reinforces the importance of heeding warnings from the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority and using the appropriate channels—112 for emergencies and SNS 24 for clinical guidance—thereby contributing to a more effective response to priority situations and collective safety.