Hospital Emergency Information

Emergencies can and will occur. It is everyone’s responsibility to know what to do for each emergency situation.

This section will explain how hospital staff are alerted to emergencies, emergency code names, how you can call an emergency, and how you need to respond during an emergency.

Emergency Alerts in the Hospital
Since the hospital is very large, hospital staff are alerted to emergency situations through the overhead paging system. Each type of emergency is associated with a code name.

The code name is paged overhead throughout the duration of the emergency. Once the emergency is cleared and there is no more danger, overhead pages alert staff that the code is canceled.

Drills are often performed to keep everyone prepared in the event of a real emergency. Do not be alarmed if you hear code drills being paged while you’re in the hospital.

Emergency Code Names
Please contact the CEP office to get a list of hospital emergency codes.

How to Call an Emergency Code
If you see an emergency situation, you can call the code to alert hospital staff to the emergency.

Note: emergency codes are to be called only during genuine emergencies.

To do this, follow these steps:

1. Pick up any phone inside the hospital
2. Dial 77 for Salem Hospital – Dial 88 for West Valley Hospital
3. The emergency operator will answer
4. Identify the code you are calling by its code name (ex. Code 5 in the Gift Shop)
5. Give the location of the emergency situation
6. Provide the operator with any other information needed

You may need help other than what is listed under the codes. To get emergency assistance in these situations, dial the emergency switchboard number, 77 (88 for West Valley Hospital) and identify the emergency, your location, and what you need.

For example, this would be a step you could take if someone needs help to ensure they are alright.

How to Respond During Emergencies
If an emergency code is called in your area of the hospital, follow these steps:

1. Remain calm – this is vital for your safety in emergency situations
2. Remove yourself from the emergency, especially in the cases of fire, violent people, or any other immediate threats to your safety
3. Report to Volunteer Services immediately by calling or coming to the office
4. Depending on the emergency situation, you may be asked to assist or you may be sent home for safety