When faced with an emergency, being able to communicate clearly and effectively could be a matter of life and death. For non-native English speakers, knowing basic survival English phrases and vocabulary can be immensely helpful. Here are some essential words and phrases that could come in handy during emergencies.

Help
This is perhaps the most universally recognized plea for assistance.
I fell down the stairs and hurt my leg, can you help me?

Emergency
Refers to a serious, unexpected, and often dangerous situation requiring immediate action.
There’s a fire in the building; this is an emergency!

Accident
An unfortunate incident that happens unexpectedly and unintentionally, typically resulting in damage or injury.
There has been an accident on the highway; traffic is backed up for miles.

Fire
Combustion or burning, in which substances combine chemically with oxygen from the air and typically give out bright light, heat, and smoke.
Call 911 – there’s a fire in the kitchen!

Police
The civil force of a national or local government, responsible for the prevention and detection of crime and the maintenance of public order.
Someone broke into my house; I need to contact the police.

Ambulance
A vehicle specially equipped for taking sick or injured people to and from the hospital, especially in emergencies.
We need an ambulance; my grandfather is having chest pains.

Emergency Services
The necessary public organizations, including police, fire, and medical teams, which deal with emergencies.
In case of an earthquake, the emergency services will be at your disposal.

First Aid
Help given to a sick or injured person until full medical treatment is available.
She is trained in first aid and can bandage the wound until the ambulance arrives.

Hospital
An institution providing medical and surgical treatment and nursing care for sick or injured people.
After the car crash, the victims were quickly taken to the nearest hospital.

Medicine
Substances used for treating or preventing disease.
Keep your emergency kit stocked with essential medicine for unforeseen situations.

Allergy
A damaging immune response by the body to a substance, especially pollen, fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive.
I have a serious allergy to peanuts; please call for medical help if I consume any.

Evacuation
The action of evacuating a person or a place.
Follow the evacuation plan shown on the hotel map in case of fire.

Rescue
To save (someone) from a dangerous or distressing situation.
The coast guard was quick to rescue the swimmers caught in the current.

Disaster
A sudden event, such as an accident or a natural catastrophe, that causes great damage or loss of life.
In the aftermath of the disaster, the community came together to support those affected.

By learning and practicing these survival English words and phrases, non-native speakers can improve their ability to navigate and communicate during emergencies. Remember, in such situations, clarity and speed are essential, so keep your language plain and your requests direct. Stay safe and be prepared.