Can I wait here until the emergency services arrive?
'Arrivo' = ar-REE-voh. 'Soccorsi' = sok-KOR-see. Calm, coordinating phrase for the post-crisis period.
After calling emergency services — confirming your position and preparing to guide responders.
'Posso aspettare' (can I wait) requests permission. 'Fino all'arrivo di' (until the arrival of) is a formal prepositional phrase. 'Soccorsi' (rescue services) is plural. After calling emergency services in Italy, staying at the location and being visible helps responders find the scene quickly. You may be asked to wave, flash a torch, or describe your location in real time.
Come faccio a non perdere la comunicazione con il 118 durante l'attesa?
How do I avoid losing the 118 call while waiting?
Keep the call connected — operators provide real-time guidance.
Mando qualcuno all'ingresso per guidare l'ambulanza.
I'll send someone to the entrance to guide the ambulance.
Excellent practice — designating a guide speeds up response significantly.
Quanto mancano all'arrivo?
How long until they arrive?
Operators can update you on ETA — keep them informed of status changes.
Italian emergency services request that callers stay on the line until help arrives whenever possible. This allows operators to update responders on the patient's status and provide first aid guidance in real time. The 118 call record is also legal evidence — it documents the timeline and content of the emergency. Ending the call prematurely can complicate legal proceedings.