What is it?

9-1-1 is a three-digit telephone number that you can call 24 hours a day for police, fire or emergency medical services. It saves valuable time in an emergency. According to nationwide statistics, it can take up to 2 1/2 minutes to find your telephone directory and another 30 seconds to locate the correct number. In an emergency, 3 minutes is a long time – time that can be saved by remembering to call 9-1-1!

When to call

  • When police, fire and medical response is needed.
  • When you see fire or smoke.
  • When life and/or property are in danger.
  • When a crime is being committed.
  • When an ambulance is necessary.

Anyone Can Call

Children should be taught to call 9-1-1 for police, fire or medical help. The sight-impaired can use the digits, 9-1-1 on the telephone, or use a preprogrammed speed dial button. The hearing-impaired can use a TDD machine.

How To Call

  • To call 9-1-1 from a home phone or a simple business phone, pick up the phone and press the numbers, 9-1-1.
  • To call 9-1-1 from a Centrex or PBX business extension, obtain an outside line (usually with “9”), and then press the numbers, 9-1-1.
  • To call 9-1-1 from a pay phone, no money is needed; simply press the numbers 9-1-1.
  • To call 9-1-1 from a cellular phone or mobile phone, press the numbers 9-1-1. NO LOCATION INFORMATION WILL BE DISPLAYED.

How it Works

When you call 9-1-1, a dispatcher takes your information, and then dispatches the appropriate police, fire and/or emergency medical team located in your area. You will be asked questions about your emergency. Try to answer all the questions as best you can. If you have a medical need, First Aid/CPR instructions will be given until help arrives.

How do I use it?

9-1-1 is only a telephone number. Quick response depends on the vital information which you provide. Remain calm and speak clearly.

Tell the 9-1-1 Dispatcher:

  • Where is the location?
  • What is happening?

The 9-1-1 dispatcher will then ask you more questions. Provide answers as best you can.

Remember!

  • 9-1-1 is not for jokes … it is for those who need help.
  • Post your address, phone number and nearest cross street by each telephone so any (baby-sitter, friend, visitor and family members) will be able to give the vital information needed for quick response.
  • Your house number needs to be visible from the street or clearly posted where your driveway joins the main road.
  • 9-1-1 is not for information; such as road or weather conditions, area power outages, or directions.