HOW 9-1-1 WORKS.....

• The 9-1-1 number can be dialed from any telephone and will go directly to the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) designated to answer your call.

• Special computers and monitors display the location and phone number where the 9-1-1 call originated.   A typical 9-1-1 display will give the phone number of the caller, the name the phone is registered to, the address where the call came from, the apartment number or lot number (if applicable), and the name of the telephone service provider. 

• The 9-1-1 call taker will ask questions about your emergency and relay information to emergency response agencies.

• You may call 9-1-1 from any coin-operated telephone without depositing money.  The address and telephone number should be displayed on the telephone.

• Cellular telephones have toll-free access to 9-1-1.  Currently cellular phones do not have the ability to inform 9-1-1 of your identity or your exact location.  

WHEN CALLING 9-1-1, KNOW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

• LOCATION OF THE EMERGENCY - This is the most critical information operators need when taking a 9-1-1 call.  Giving your location is a top priority because if you are disconnected during the call, the 9-1-1 operator will know the location of the emergency, if nothing else (this is especially crucial when using cell phones).  When possible, give the full street address including any apt or lot numbers of where the emergency is occurring and also the nearest cross street.  [A cross street is the closest street that intersects with your location.]  Other helpful information that can be included is a description of your residence, any vehicles in the yard, major landmarks, etc.

• TYPE OF EMERGENCY - Specify whether you are requesting law enforcement, the fire department, or medical assistance. 

• WHAT IS THE EMERGENCY?

• ARE WEAPONS INVOLVED? - This is critical for the safety of the responders.  Be as specific as possible (type of weapon, it's exact location, etc).

•  NUMBER/DESCRIPTION OF PERSONS INVOLVED - Be as detailed as possible  (sex, race, clothing description, etc).

• IS ANYONE HURT?

HELPFUL TIPS TO MAKE AN EMERGENCY CALL GO SMOOTHLY AND QUICKLY:

• Remain CALM, be PATIENT, and SPEAK CLEARLY. 

• KNOW the address of the emergency and the phone number that you are calling from.  Do not assume that 9-1-1 operators will know your location.

• Let the call taker ask you for information!  There is a reason that they ask each question and they will immediately dispatch the call as soon as the proper information is received.

• If it is a FIRE CALL, the call taker will instruct your to get out of the residence as soon as they get your address.  He/she will also need to know if there is anyone else in the building and if they can get out.

• If it is a MEDICAL CALL, the call taker will be able to give you instructions on what to do to help the patient until the EMS personnel get to your location.

• Do not hang up the phone until you are instructed to do so by the call taker. 

KNOW WHEN TO CALL 9-1-1!

• The 9-1-1 system is intended for emergency use only!  An emergency is when immediate law enforcement, fire department, or medical assistance is necessary to protect life or property.  If you think or feel that there is an emergency but are not sure, ASSUME THAT IT IS and use 9-1-1.

• For a non-emergency situation, you should use the emergency response agencies regular telephone number.  Keep them handy by your telephone so you can dial them should the need arise.

DO NOT DIAL 9-1-1 TO REPORT A POWER OUTAGE IN YOUR AREA!  Contact your local utility company to report or inquire about it.   However, if you or someone in your home relies on the power to run an oxygen tank or some other life sustaining equipment, then it is ok to dial 9-1-1.