How and When to Call 9-1-1
Only for Emergencies
Call 9-1-1 only for true emergencies, such as fires, vehicle
accidents and medical emergencies. Do NOT call 9-1-1 for pet
emergencies or for fun or as a joke. The consequences could be
serious. Misuse of 9-1-1 is a first degree misdemeanor, but if
your call results in more than $100 in services provided or if
you misuse 9-1-1 four times, it's a third degree felony.
How to Dial 9-1-1
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Press the "9" and then the "1"
key twice, instead of looking for an "11" key
that doesn't exist.
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From a cell phone: don't wait
for a dial tone, dial the number and press the
green "send" or "call" button to place the call.
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Cooperate with 9-1-1
dispatchers.
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Dispatchers are the people who
answer the phone when you call in with an
emergency.
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They are there to help.
Provide them as much information as possible.
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Remain calm.
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Ensure children know they are
allowed to give out their address and phone
number to dispatchers.
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Answer all of the questions as
best you can. Remember, while you give
additional information, dispatchers have already
sent emergency crews your way.
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Don't hang up until they tell
you to. Firefighters, police and ambulances
(rescue units) will respond to emergencies
depending on the type.
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Firefighters recommend you
write down your name, phone number, address and
basic directions to your house and leave it by
the phone. In an emergency you may panic and
forget even basic information.
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Don't Get Confused
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Don't confuse 9-1-1 and 9/11.
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"9/11" was the day of the
tragic attack on America on September 11, 2001
and "9-1-1" is used to call for help in
emergency situations.
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Although the same numbers are
used, they are not same thing.
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Always pronounce the numbers
correctly to reduce confusion: 9-1-1
(Nine-one-one) instead of 9/11 (Nine-eleven).
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For more information about
dispatchers, see the Communications page under the
Operations tab or click
here.
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