[shas3]

In India, Google search for a pretty specific string, "<nearest hospital's name> ambulance phone number," showed up a bunch of scammy ads. In our distraught state (an elderly relative had just had a fall), we accidentally called the top ad which turned out to be a scam ambulance service.

A beat up van showed up, without any EMT, a sketchy stretcher without straps, and no tracks or fasteners to hold it down inside the van. We were outraged and asked them to leave immediately. They demanded money to leave, and left only when we threatened to call the police on them.

We realized our mistake and scrolled down to the actual results and called the reputed local hospital which sent a properly equipped legit ambulance. Thankfully it was a simple fracture and the lost time did not lead to dangerous complications. But this could have been fatal if the emergency was more serious.

When I returned to the US, I tried searching for ambulances, and Google conspicuously avoids showing ads and suggests calling 9-1-1.

[tankerkiller125]

Sounds like India needs a single number for all emergency services instead of the fractured system they have now.

[user_7832]

I believe 112 is already the single emergency number. It appears to be a relatively recent thing though.

[actionfromafar]

It also sounds like Google knows to do the right thing when the country government they operate in force them to.

[avibhu]

Not sure why there no direct replies to this, but 108 is a dedicated line for all emergencies. Interestingly 112 and 911 have also worked for me in the past when butt dialed.

[djbusby]

That's a lot of work&time. Until then Google should not allow bullshit advertising.

[rejectfinite]

Yes, because the US and other nations invested in a standarized system with 91 (112 here), in a corrupt nation that wont happen.

[CactusOnFire]

New business idea: Mug the fake ambulance drivers.