April is National 9-1-1 Education Month. Here are some tips when calling us.
9-1-1 needs to know where to go
- When calling 9-1-1, one of the first things you’ll be asked to provide is the location of the emergency you’re reporting.
- The call taker may not automatically know your location or may ask you to confirm it.
- Tell the call taker the location of the emergency. Provide landmarks such as cross streets and mileposts.
- Always be aware of your surroundings.
Know your cell well
- The current 9-1-1 system is designed for voice communications only.
- Texting 9-1-1 is not an option in most locales; you must dial 9-1-1 and speak with a call taker.
- Lock your keypad when you’re not using your phone, so 9-1-1 isn’t dialed by mistake. For the same reason, don’t put 9-1-1 on speed dial.
- Do not give old phones to children as toys. A wireless phone with no active service can still call 9-1-1.
- If you accidentally call 9-1-1, stay on the line and tell the receiver that you do not have an emergency.
9-1-1 is for emergency use only
- Call 9-1-1 for emergencies only.
- It is appropriate to call 9-1-1 when you need to save a life, stop a crime or report a fire.
- 9-1-1 is the right number to call in an emergency when a prompt response is needed.
Know how to use 9-1-1 with the phone you own
- Before you need help in an emergency, be sure to understand how the type of phone you use affects your call to 9-1-1.
- Cell phones may not automatically tell 9-1-1 where you are.
- Know the capabilities of the device you are using (landline, cellular, VoIP) when calling 9-1-1.
Remain calm, be prepared
- Try to stay calm, listen carefully, give information and follow all instructions.
- In an emergency, seconds matter, so being knowledgeable and prepared can make all the difference.
- Knowing when to call and what to expect when you phone 9-1-1 can help reduce fear and feelings of helplessness in an emergency.
Help 9-1-1 help you
- The more you know what to expect when you call 9-1-1, the faster 9-1-1 can get you the help you need.
- If you dial 9-1-1 for a non-emergency matter, you are tying up resources that could be needed in a real emergency.
- You can save a life! Follow all instructions the 9-1-1 call taker gives you, and don’t hang up until the call taker does.